CRISIS ATHLETE™
GRATITUDE
Learn more about the 'why' behind
Why are we talking about gratitude?
Recognizing what you are thankful for – even during the worst times – fosters resilience.
In psychology research, gratitude is consistently associated with greater happiness.
Studies find that practicing gratitude can also help improve sleep quality, physical health, mood, self-esteem, and most importantly, foster mental strength and resilience.
Starting with Gratitude
A grateful mindset encourages help-seeking behavior, allowing us to address problems directly and utilize the resources around us with a positive outlook, while increasing our potential for growth and learning.
Gratitude impacts medial prefrontal cortex activation and releases oxytocin (the “feel good” hormone).
Recognizing what you are grateful for has been found to reduce stress, and even help people overcome trauma. One study even found that gratitude was a major contributor to resilience following the September 11 terrorist attacks.
What does neuroscience say about gratitude?
TIPS AND ACTIVITIES
Here are some ways to begin practicing gratitude today.
You don’t have to be an expert to BEGIN to reap the benefits.
START today with simple, quick, effective tactics.
Individual
Gratitude Journal
Write down three things you are grateful for each day. Writing it down helps turn the abstract into concrete ideas. Our natural tendency is to write down things like, our children, parents, friends, etc. Push yourself to also recognize intangible things, such as your freedom and health.
Doing it at the start of your day can help you start off with positive intentions. Doing this at the end of the day can encourage better sleep.
Individual
Gratitude Conversations
In your conversations, ask questions that can lead to grateful reflections. For example, make it a habit to ask your family what they are grateful for during dinner. Or ask someone what was the best part of their day.
Individual, Team
Gratitude Jar
Create a gratitude jar. When you have a moment of gratitude, write it down on a piece of paper, and put it in your jar.
You can make reviewing your grateful moments a special occasion in itself, or even read a couple when you just need a “pick-me-up”.
You can also do this at the office for everyone to participate.
Individual
Gratitude with Others
Expressing gratitude can make your relationships stronger. Next time you are appreciative of someone, let them know!
Individual
Find Gratitude in Your Challenges
Gratitude is more than just focusing on the positive. Reflecting on difficult past experiences can shed light on how much you have to be thankful for today.
Want to learn more?
Contact us for more information on how we can leverage advances in neuroscience to understand human behavior, cultivate growth, and get results for you and your organization.
