Happy Thanksgiving to all, especially my fellow unemployees who may be finding the holiday season particularly difficult to deal with. On this day, and every day, it is important to appreciate what we do have.
Many authors on the topic of positive psychology talk about the link between gratitude and happiness. One of my favorites is Tal Ben-Shahar, who has written several books and held lectures on positive psychology at Harvard University. He sites practical research on gratitude and the benefits that it can bring about, which include:
In order to make gratitude a habit, Ben-Shahar strongly recommends keeping a journal and writing down at least five things that you are grateful for every day. The key is to really feel the emotion of gratitude as you write your list. Try it. Here is a list of what I am grateful for today:
1. My girlfriend
2. My family
3. Thanksgiving salmon (yes, we had salmon this year... it was delicious!)
4. Falling leaves
5. Being able to read
If you want to read more from Tal Ben-Shahar, check out his book "Happier: Learn the Secrets to Daily Joy and Lasting Fulfillment" at Amazon.com or, better still, see if your local library has a copy:
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