Sometimes we can obsess and waste so much time and energy focusing on all the things that we don’t have, that we end up feeling anxious, resentful, restless, frustrated or even disappointed because of all the lack in our lives. We are also never fully present in the moment, because we are still longing for something. It may even cause us to miss out on special moments with loved ones, because we are chasing after things and putting time and effort into seeking out those things that we think will fill us.
“If only I had a car, if only I had a bigger car, if only I had a house, if only I had two houses and a holiday house, if only I could go on holiday, if only I could go on an overseas holiday, if only I earned more money, and had a better job title, if only I could have this, or this, or that, and that…then maybe I would happier!”
NO!
Chasing shadows
We chase after things that will never ever truly fill who we are. Material objects, holidays, job promotions, can never truly bring long-term happiness and fulfillment. Yes, it will be exciting to experience all of those things, but when the dust settles, we will probably want more and more, and we end up constantly chasing after happiness.
Therefore, our happiness cannot be found in things, but rather within ourselves, with being content with who we are, and knowing that what we have is actually enough sometimes.
Chasing gratitude
If we had to put the same amount of focus, energy and time into acknowledging all of the great things that we do have in our lives, we would feel more appreciative of, and happier with, who we are and with what we have. Chasing after gratitude, has to become a natural habit that we form in our lives. This will happen when we are intentional about changing the way we think about things, and changing our perceptions and attitudes that we have towards the things that are already in our lives.
Chasing after gratitude takes our focus off of our ‘lack’, and makes us feel happy and blessed with everything that we do have. We become more present, humble, less stressed and happier! Which in turn will improve our moods, physical health, and sustain and strengthen our character regardless of the seasons of life we go through.
Small ways to encourage gratitude
- Start every morning being thankful that you are alive and that every sunrise is a start at a new day. This simple action, will encourage your heart and mind to start the day with a positive attitude.
- Identify and acknowledge your blessings, and be thankful for them.
- Watch what you say – do you constantly focus and talk about all the negative lack in your life, or are you focusing and speaking about all of the things that are blessings in your life? What we say filters into our heart and thoughts, which in turn influences what we feel, how we behave and how we respond to our circumstances.
Remember that your life, your path and your story is unique, and will outwork itself very differently to others. Write your story well, and live it out beautifully!