How To Practice Daily Gratitude + Easy Gratitude Exercises
Want to improve your daily gratitude practice?
These are trying times, the world has changed and learning how to practice gratitude is more important than ever.
We miss our old lives (that we most likely took for granted) and we don’t know when “normal’ will return, or if it will.
Losing control is scary, but there are things we do have control over…
Our thoughts and actions.
We can choose to live with gratitude every day in these uncertain times. So, I ask – what are you grateful for?
–
This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Read my disclosure info here for more info.
The Benefits of Practicing Daily Gratitude
We know gratitude makes us feel good but there are also scientifically-proven benefits of gratitude.
In this Psychology Today article they list out key benefits of gratitude such as improved relationships, empathy, psychological health and mental strength.
Gratitude is also noted to help you sleep better and it improves self-esteem.
Here are the reasons I find myself benefiting from daily gratitude, which I hope will give you inspiration.
- Gratitude lifts your mood
- It reduces stress and anxiety
- Increases overall feelings of contentment and happiness
- Gives you a perspective of your situation vs ‘the world’ around you
- Leads to longer-term satisfaction in life
Related: 40 Gratitude Quotes and Being Thankful Sayings
When you begin to realize everything you have to be grateful for, no matter how small, this is when the benefits of practicing daily gratitude really make a positive impact.
When our world as we know it closed down and everyone was told to stay home I purchased a daily gratitude journal in hopes it would help shift my mood through the stress and anxiety I’d been feeling.
I didn’t know how much of a difference it would make in my daily life, but I decided to give it a try.
The gratitude journal I picked up has a beautiful quote on each page, plus 3 spots to write what you are thankful for every day.
At first, I thought that only writing 3 things a day would be too simple but as I woke up each day to write, I discovered what a positive impact this simple daily habit had on me.
I have been focusing on daily gratitude for a few years now and it’s something that has changed my perspective for the better in my world.
I truly believe that everyone has the opportunity to practice daily gratitude in their life and I want to share some ways you can begin. 🙂
How to Practice Daily Gratitude + Easy Gratitude Exercises You Can Try... #gratitude #attitudeofgratitude Share on XHow to Practice Daily Gratitude – 4 Gratitude Exercises
Let’s talk about ways you can incorporate gratitude into your life on a daily basis. I have 4 exercises you can try to easily add a gratitude practice to your routine.
1. Write a Daily Gratitude List
The best time to write your gratitude list is first thing in the morning. This way you are starting with positivity which will set your perspective on the day in a positive light.
I find writing a gratitude list in the morning especially helpful if I’ve woken up with stressful or negative thoughts. By simply writing down a few things you are thankful for can help you focus on the good in your day and push out the negative feelings and thoughts.
Related: Morning Self Care Routine – New Ideas to Start Your Day
2. Mindfully Reflect on Your Blessings During the Day
At various points throughout the day, mindfully look for things to be grateful for – then acknowledge them.
Once you begin to intentionally look for things to be thankful for, this will become a habit you don’t have to think about anyone.
You’ll start to appreciate the taste of your morning tea or coffee more than ever.
You’ll notice that simple pieces of your daily life are actually quite special and something you can celebrate.
“The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.”
– Oprah Winfrey
This gratitude quote by Oprah describes how gratitude can give you such joy 🙂
3. Communicate Your Gratitude
This is your opportunity to tell your loved ones, neighbours and strangers why you are thankful for them.
As a society, we don’t do this enough.
I want you to think about this…
There are people in your life every day. People you know well and people you hardly think of. These individuals make a positive impact on your day – every single day.
Who are they?
- The postal worker who waves on their way by
- The friend who calls you to say hi
- Your neighbour who chats with you through the fence
- The grocery store clerk who chats and smiles
- Your spouse who just made you a cup of tea
We may not notice these little gestures from those in our lives, but these little acts of kindness are all around us.
It’s up to us to notice them, appreciate them and show our gratitude.
How should you show gratitude? Simply say thank you in your own way.
For example: If you’re at the grocery store and the clerk is extra kind to you, tell them their kindness made your day. Cause, guess what? In turn, you will make their day and that person will continue to spread more joy to others. 🙂
4. Experience Your Daily Gratitude by Acting On It
What does this mean? We all have things to be thankful for, so experiencing and interacting with these gifts will bring out even more enjoyment in our lives.
Let me share some examples…
- Do you have an outdoor space at home? Whether it’s a garden, large outdoor space or balcony you can enjoy it. Read outside, enjoy your favourite drink, plant flowers, herbs or veggies and even work outside. Use the space you are grateful for, to it’s fullest.
- Have access to healthy food? Appreciate what your food has to offer by trying some new recipes.
- Live in a quiet neighbourhood? Enjoy walking or running in some new areas.
- Have a load of books on your shelves? Jump in and read them all (if you haven’t already).
Whatever you are grateful for, make sure to truly experience these gifts in your life.
Have trouble finding time for you? Read this post on how you can try this trick to give yourself more time for what you love.
Your Daily Gratitude Challenge:
- Share in the comments 3 things you are grateful for today.
- Wake up tomorrow morning and write down 3 more things you are thankful for.
- Share your appreciation with those you are grateful for. Find simple ways to communicate your gratitude.
- Help your loved ones practice gratitude. You can share your experience practicing gratitude, share this post with them or as a treat gift them the Good Days Start with Gratitude Journal(as seen above).
Let’s Get Started!
Share in the comments 3 things you are grateful for today…
Related Gratitude Articles:
- 30 Days of Gratitude Challenge: The Ultimate Guide
- 52 Gratitude Journal Prompts to Increase Happiness
- 7 Ways to Appreciate The Little Things in Life
- 225 Things to Be Thankful For in Life
- 15 Inspiring Quotes to Live in the Present
For more inspiration and to get the latest post from Put The Kettle On, let’s connect!
Pinterest | Facebook | Instagram
Yolanda xo
About Yolanda
Website Owner / Content Creator
I’m passionate about helping you live life to the fullest so you can choose to find happiness and purpose. Learn how to CREATE THE LIFE YOU LOVE with intentional living and discovery of the simple things life has to offer. Learn more!
I know this is an old article but it’s just what I needed right now. Having recently suffered with major burnout I am now finding it difficult to recover and one thing I never focus on is gratitude. Of course, I am obliviously grateful for things but never acknowledge these things in the present moment. I hope that starting a journal will help me on my road to burnout recovery. 3 things I am grateful for today
1. My 4 beautiful children and wonderful husband – some people do not have this privilege
2. My 3 lovely cats – they are my comfort when I need a break from people (as an introvert this I’ve very important)
3. To have a roof over our head and food on the table – Again, some people never get this privilege
Thanks so much for sharing Emma. Such beautiful things to be grateful for 🙂 I’m also truly happy you’re starting to see how gratitude can make such a positive impact in your life. xo
Thanks for such a great, uplifting read! I’m grateful for my job, my partner and for always having good food to eat 🙂
So happy you enjoyed this Hannah 🙂 Such good things to be thankful for! All the best xoxo
Yes!! Gratitude is so important! Love this!
I’m grateful for health, my family, and my pup that keeps me company and entertained while I’m at home all day.
Hi Keegan – thanks!! I am so grateful for my pup too! What would we do without our fur babies?!
Here are my three things I’m thankful for today 🙂
1. Watched some personal growth videos on youtube and learned some new ideas
2. Had dinner and deep talk with my best friend tonight
3. My blog’s traffic is better than last month
Good read and thanks for reminding me about gratitude again! That’s what I need today
Hi Hannah – thanks so much for sharing 🙂 Those are certainly wonderful things to be grateful for. Keep practising daily gratitude as I’m sure you’ll see you have beautiful things to appreciate every day xo
This was a great read. Today I’m grateful for hand sanitizer, fresh air and weekends. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Kimberley – thanks! Gosh I hear you – great things to be grateful for!
Loved this article – wholeheartedly believe in gratitude and it’s power.
Thanks so much Lisa! Agree – gratitude can make such a big difference in our lives, even when appreciating the tiny things.
Great ideas. I have a 1-minute gratitude journal I write in every morning. I also ask my kids at bedtime to tell me a few things they are thankful for from the day. It’s such an important practice that can keep things in perspective even on the toughest days.
Hi Lauren 🙂 I absolutely love that tradition you have with your kids at bedtime. Such a beautiful habit you are giving them.
How fun! This makes we want to start a gratitude journal! I’m grateful for my husband, my cat, and our jobs! ❤️
Hi Rachel! Definitely do start one 🙂 What a difference it makes to your day. Great gratitude list xo
I love the advice you give in this post. I know first-hand how much keeping a gratitude journal can improve your mindset, and consequently, your life. But your advice to actually put into practice is spot on!! Actually showing and sharing your gratitude with others puts you in an even better mood, and makes those around you happier. Love it.
Hi Jen, Thanks so much for the positive note! Sounds like we are definitely on the same page. Here’s to taking control of our happiness!! Take care xo
This is great! In light of the current situation, we have been focusing on showing our appreciation to different people who have touched us in some way, shape or form. For example, this week we dropped off a gift card for a local pizza shop with a thank you letter in our neighbours’ mailbox, thanking them for being amazing neighbours. Everyone needs a little light in the face of the negativity right now.
Hi Britt! I just love that you’re showing people your gratitude. Taking it this step further is so inspiring. I bet you really made their day 🙂 xo
This was great! I’ve never considered writing a daily gratitude journal! Now seems like the best time to start!
Hey Morgan! Thanks 🙂 Honestly – what a different it makes just spending a few minutes everyday focusing on gratitude. It can really set up your day to be much more positive than normal.
Love your tips on expressing gratitude! It’s good to be reminded on things like this, since it’s so easy to focus on the negative. Thanks for this post!
Hi Irene 🙂 So happy you enjoyed the post. You nailed it – it can be easy to think negative but with practice practicing gratitude becomes even more natural. Thanks so much for the note. xo
I think a gratitude journal could really help me remember to be grateful each day!
3 Things I am grateful for today:
~ My husband waiting in the cold to get into the grocery store so I didn’t have to!
~ Little girl giggles in my home (always love hearing these!)
~ An art teacher that could pivot her business and continue lessons online with my kiddos!
Thanks so much for sharing Rose! Such beautiful blessings to be grateful for. I love giggles! In my house it’s boy giggles and I love them just as much!
In times like these, it is neccesary to have a grateful attitude and a positive mind. Today I’m grateful for the food I have, the family that supports me and for being able to write. Thank you for sharing such a lovely and necessary post.
Hi Vanessa! Thanks for sharing 😀 Those truly are important things to be grateful for. Keep on seeing these blessings everyday! take care!! xo
I’m in for this challenge! I have let me gratitude practice slide lately and I have felt the difference. Thanks for the inspiration to pull my journal off the dusty shelf and fill it with hope and positivity.
Hi Jen! Excellent!! The important thing is to get back into the practice of daily gratitude. It makes such a difference, especially in these unsettling times. xo
This is so useful, I love it! Here are the 3 things I’m grateful food:
1. having a secure job
2. having a supporting family and circle of friends
3. good health
Those are definitely 3 wonderful things to be grateful for. Thanks so much for sharing! 🙂
A positive mindset is a powerful tool and the gratitude exercises you described are definitely helpful ones.
1. Having a secure job
2. Knowing that my family and I are improving our finances significantly.
3. My blog is doing great this month!
Thank you!
Hi Matt! Thanks for sharing your gratitude. Sounds like you do have a lot to be thankful for, especially in these challenging times. Take care!
I also enjoy reading blogs about expressing gratitude. Without gratitude, there could not be happiness. Thanks for sharing.
You are so right about that. Gratitude is a key contributor to true happiness. Thanks for the note Beth – have a good one!
Awesome. I started a daily gratitude diary with my 4 year old daughter. This is a great addition to the gratitude database currently growing in my head. Thanks
I love that you started this with your daughter! What a great habit to have her practice early in life 🙂 Thanks for sharing and have a wonderful day!
Great reminders to practice gratitude! I’m having a hard time with staying home even though I’m an introvert. It’s weird not seeing other humans besides my kids for weeks at a time. But we have many things to be grateful, including not being sick.
Hi Rebecca! Thanks! Such strange times. I find moods can go high and low in these odd times, so daily gratitude definitely helps. We are just so lucky to be with our families and have a safe, warm home 🙂 Hang in there and stay safe!