“Gratitude is the memory of the heart.” – French Proverb

November gifts us with beautiful colors- think of the deep orange, bright yellows and dark browns of the leaves. The weather becomes comfortably light, cool and crisp. There is a slight whisper of frosty winter swirls, however the air smells fresh and brings heartfelt swellings of hope. This time of year also brings a strong shift in my being; emotionally and spiritually. I feel more creative, productive and energised. It happens to be fitting that November is a wonderful month to practice being in a state of gratitude! The question is how does one begin?

While I have humbly learned that acceptance and gratitude are key to my emotional well-being, this recognition did not happen overnight. Through mentoring and meditation, I discovered that  self-knowledge has little benefit to us unless we take action. When we take THE action, we have taken the first steps in our emotional growth.  This month, I challenge you to…

…Stay in Gratitude! Each day, write down three things you are thankful or grateful for. The challenge is you MUST write them down. Consider purchasing a small notebook dedicated to this project only. Date each page, and list three things, person, places, feelings or “ANYTHINGS” that you are grateful for.  They don’t even have to be different each day. For example, I am grateful and thankful for my children, food in my refrigerator, a warm coat and a soft bed… Are you getting the idea?

…Adopt the Attitude! Gratitude is a POWERFUL emotion capable of transforming personalities and in turn, lives. The next time you start to have uncomfortable feelings about a person, place or situation try to focus on the positive aspects. For example, turn “This line at the store is too long, the checker is too slow, the people in front of me have too many items!” into “I am thankful I have money in my pocket to buy the things I need.”  A person who is continually grateful and thankful tends to be happier and healthier. Allow your new attitude of gratitude to shine through.

…Put it into action! Give back freely, encourage and be in service to others! One of the most amazing gifts we have to give is our time and attention. Give it away!

And remember that if nothing changes, nothing changes. Make your life count.

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend.” – Melody Beattie