<ul><li>Grateful people experience fewer aches and pains and they report feeling healthier than other people, according to a 2012 study published in Personality and Individual Differences. </li><li>Not surprisingly, grateful people are also more likely to take care of their health. </li><li>They exercise more often and are more likely to attend regular check-ups with their doctors, which is likely to contribute to further longevity.</li></ul>

2. Gratitude improves physical health

Gratitude reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, ranging from envy and resentment to frustration and regret. Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D., a leading gratitude researcher, has conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being. <ul><li>His research confirms that gratitude effectively increases happiness and reduces depression.</li></ul>

3. Gratitude improves psychological health 

<ul><li>Grateful people are more likely to behave in a prosocial manner, even when others behave less kind.</li><li>Study participants who ranked higher on gratitude scales were less likely to retaliate against others, even when given negative feedback.</li><li>They experienced more sensitivity and empathy toward other people and a decreased desire to seek revenge.</li></ul>

4. Gratitude enhances empathy and reduces aggression

<ul><li>For years, research has shown gratitude not only reduces stress, but it may also play a major role in overcoming trauma. </li><li>A 2006 study published in Behavior Research and Therapy found that Vietnam War Veterans with higher levels of gratitude experienced lower rates of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. </li><li>A 2003 study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that gratitude was a major contributor to resilience following the terrorist attacks on September 11. </li><li>Recognizing all you have to be thankful for – even during the worst times of your life – fosters resilience.</li></ul>

7. Gratitude increases mental strength & resilience

<ul><li>Saying “thank you” constitute good manners and showing appreciation can help you win new friends. </li><li>Thanking a new acquaintance makes them more likely to seek an ongoing relationship.</li><li>Acknowledging other people’s contributions can lead to new opportunities.</li></ul>

1. Gratitude opens the door to more relationships 

We all have the ability and opportunity to cultivate gratitude. Simply take a few moments to focus on all that you have – rather than complain about all the things you think you deserve. <a href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.forbes.com%2Fsites%2Famymorin%2F2014%2F11%2F23%2F7-scientifically-proven-benefits-of-gratitude-that-will-motivate-you-to-give-thanks-year-round%2F&text=Developing%20an%20%E2%80%9Cattitude%20of%20gratitude%E2%80%9D%20is%20one%20of%20the%20simplest%20ways%20to%20improve%20your%20satisfaction%20with%20life.">Developing an “attitude of gratitude” is one of the simplest ways to improve your satisfaction with life. </a>

<ul><li>Writing in a gratitude journal improves sleep, according to a 2011 study published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being. </li><li>Spend just 15 minutes jotting down a few grateful sentiments before bed, and you may sleep better and longer.</li></ul>

5. Grateful people sleep better

<ul><li>A 2014 study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology found that gratitude increased athlete’s self-esteem, which is an essential component to optimal performance. </li><li>Other studies have shown that gratitude reduces social comparisons. </li><li>Rather than becoming resentful toward people who have more money or better jobs – which is a major factor in reduced self-esteem- grateful people are able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments.</li></ul>

6. Gratitude improves self-esteem

Counting your blessings on Thanksgiving is great, but being grateful every day will change your life.

5. Grateful people sleep better

Similar ideas to 5. Grateful people sleep better

9. Practice frequent, specific and broad gratitude

Count your blessings

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