The attitude of appreciation can really improve our lives greatly. When we focus on what is going right, we really have much to see. Perhaps think of it this way, if you see something that doesn’t emit uncomfortable feelings, focus on it for 10-20 seconds. Recognizing it brings joy and staying with it for a short time (longer than usual) will help the happiness make neural connections (Hardwiring Happiness by Rick Hanson). A fun experiment to try is to notice that you are enjoying an experience then really talk it up while it is happening, then tell a few people about the amazing experience you had and then maybe journal about it. I tried this with a chicken sandwich once. I really wanted a “chicken little”. Kentucky Fried Chicken used to make these little chicken sandwiches (slider size) which were just a breaded chicken patty, mayonnaise and a bun. They were nothing amazing, but nevertheless, I was craving one. I knew they didn’t make them anymore so I tried McDonald’s. They had a larger chicken sandwich which I asked them to make with just mayonnaise, kinda like the chicken little. It was great! It had a few more spices on it that I recall the little having which made it feel a little more gourmet. It hit the spot! As I was eating that sandwich, I was talking about how perfect it was and how good it tasted. I shared my experiment with some friends and reminisced about it a number of times, including now. It was such a great experience, I still feel joy when I think about that chicken sandwich.
Isn’t that what so many folks do, only about experiences that feel crappy. For example, someone pulled out in front of me, that Customer Service Representative was rude, that customer was rude, and so on. They tell their friends, remember it later and tell some more people. They may say their day was crappy because they had some bad experiences. Imagine if we talked up many of our pleasant experiences rather than our icky ones how much joy and happiness we would feel each day. Upon reflection of the day we may just remember it as a good day. Try it. See what you think. Please share your experience below if you would like. We would love to hear more good news.
This is perfect for me right now. Thank you. Right now I appreciate the fact that the cottonwood tree is almost done shedding the fluff, and that the tomato plants have a few flowers on them. I will continue to focus on not only being thankful and focusing on the positive, but sharing the joys with my family.