Tumultuous…is that an understatement, or what?
Whatever part of the world you live in, the endless loop of pandemic fears, social isolation, economic slowdown, civil unrest, and non-stop political drama has likely taken a toll on you.
I know it has on me.
As the craziest year on record comes to a close, I doubt anyone can say that they haven’t been affected by all that I listed above. We all know someone who has struggled with a COVID-19 diagnosis, been in despair over the constant flux of in-person schooling or distance learning, lost a business, was affected by a protest, or lost friends due to political beliefs or differences.
And our mental well-being has suffered as a result.
In the USA (according to the CDC):
- 40% of people have experienced a mental or behavioral health condition related to the coronavirus epidemic.
- 1 in 4 have experienced symptoms of depression—4X higher than in previous years.
- 1 in 10 had considered suicide at some point during the last 30 days—an increase of 100% from previous years.
- 13.3% of Americans have begun or increased substance use to cope with stress related to the epidemic.
As easy as it would be to let the chaos and heartache of 2020 define who we are, we cannot do that.
We must resist falling into the quagmire of desire and avoid a victim mentality.
We must take the steps we need to form a new attitude of gratitude. Why? Because there is always something to be grateful for.
You may not be able to control the state of the world, but you can control your own outlook, thoughts, and habits.
“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgiving, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” – Proverb
Ask yourself, when was the last time you displayed any type of appreciation or gratitude? NO really, be honest. Not sure? Then let’s create a new habit of gratitude TODAY.
Here are a few things you could try:
- Write down two things that you are grateful for. Repeat tomorrow.
- Thank your spouse for supporting you, thank your children for being who they are, and enjoy the time with your family.
Repeat tomorrow. - Tell one family member that you appreciate being in their life. Repeat tomorrow.
- Look for a way to do a Random Act of Kindness like buying a stranger a cup of coffee, leaving a treat in the mailbox for the mail carrier, or writing a letter to an elderly shut-in. Repeat tomorrow.
- As you lay in bed at night, think of what you are grateful for at that moment (including the fact that you have a soft bed and a roof over your head!). Repeat tomorrow.
If you are having trouble displaying your gratitude then simply write down all the things you are grateful for. Think about what others do for you-things that maybe you’ve taken for granted.
What has occurred in 2020 that you can be grateful for?
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