<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>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>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 

<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 

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.