This isn’t some ploy to get you to convert to some religion. But there is a freeing feeling that comes with surrendering yourself to a “higher power.” It doesn’t necessarily even have to be a god.Since I’m catholic, I of course pray to the god Christians acknowledge. But over the years, I’ve also developed a habit of talking to and praying to the universe.So, separate yourself from your pride for a little bit and pray to all things great and small.

Pray.

If there’s anything that 2020 has taught me, it’s that communication and connection are two of the most important things a person has in life. Take care of your friendships, old AND new, because you never know when you’ll need them or when they’ll need you.

Nurture the friendships you have — good friends don’t just fall out of trees.

Events are objective. <a href="https://www.thepandanook.com/its-time-to-let-go/">How you interpret them is up to you. </a>The more you label things as “good” or “bad” the more unsatisfied you’ll feel about the way you’re living.

Stop labeling things/experiences as “good” or “bad.”

There are so many things you can see, so many people you can interact with. Plus, you get good exercise.<a href="https://www.thepandanook.com/honestly-go-for-a-walk-a-lesson-on-peace-and-mindfulness-from-soren-kierkegaard/">There is no problem too big that a good, long walk can’t fix. </a>Look around and appreciate the beauty you find around you.

Go for a walk (breathe in fresh air).

I’ve found this especially effective. There’s a sort of comfort in watching other people succeed in life. It makes you realize that you really can be everything that you think you are. You just have to believe in it enough and work with consistent effort and enthusiasm, no matter what happens along the way.

Watch/read an inspiring video/book/blog.

“And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.”Ralph Waldo EmersonFeeling grateful especially during times of great trial can be challenging. It would definitely be easier to respond in spite and anger. But we all know that hate never solved anything. This is why, today, I want to share with you 10 simple ways that I’ve been practicing gratitude every day and hope that it will help you appreciate life a little more, too.

10 Simple Ways to Feel More Grateful About Life

Follow your curiosities. Seek out adventure. There’s so much that life has to give.

Do something new every day.

Don’t let yourself get sucked into a world of baseless hatred and disease.Saying good things about people to other people make you feel more trustworthy. Trust is a huge component of being happy. Have you heard anyone complain about being trustworthy??? NO!Be someone people can rely on.

Don’t gossip or speak badly about other people.

Take a chair, a bench, or a blanket outside and watch the stars. Listen to what they have to say.

Look at the stars.

This.Have you ever gotten into a fight with someone at the mall, and 4 days after, you’re still thinking about “witty” things you could have said had you been feeling more up to it that time?This is damaging behavior and you have to stop it.Action takes energy. Focus takes energy. So, it only makes sense that <a href="https://www.thepandanook.com/how-you-can-use-the-ancient-hindu-practice-of-vasana-daha-tantra-to-deal-with-complex-emotions-and-past-hurt/">every thought that we dwell on takes energy </a>.

Stop having mental debates with other people about useless topics/issues.

You need to slow down and find the time to really concentrate on the things that matter and the things that make your life better.Starting a gratitude journal forces you to stop and think about all the things that are going right in your life. Having food, a warm bed to sleep in, a safe place to call home. Not to mention friends and family who are willing to support you no matter what! These are all things to be grateful for.