Gratitude Changes Everything

Gratitude Changes Everything Having an attitude of gratitude could be the secret to happiness. Maybe those Pilgrims were on to something when they celebrated Thanksgiving. The Pilgrims celebrated a harvest festival with their Native American neighbors in 1621 ?what we often call the first Thanksgiving. (The Foundation Press, Inc.) The truth is, despite what weve been told in school, that first Thanksgiving celebrated by the Pilgrims in Plymouth, MA was probably a meager feast. Their harvest probably wasnt so bountiful. However,  they showed their gratitude. Imagine the hardship they faced, the fear they experienced, the daily survival was difficult, to say the least. Yet, they still found a way to celebrate. So, were they really playing mind games- mind over matter? ReBoot Your Thinking Is it possible to be happier by reprogramming your brain? This question reminds me of the chicken or the egg riddle- which came first? Do you need to be happy to think happy thoughts or vice versa? In Be Happy Then Succeed, I asked this question: Have you ever thought any of these things: If I just get a job, then I’ll be happy. When I get that promotion, life will be great. I want a good paying job and then everything will be OK. I am miserable in my job and I need a new one. What if I told you that your logic is backwards. You have to flip your thinking. You are happy, great, OK. Now, start feeling successful and accomplished! You can learn why reprogramming your thinking works in my US News World Report article today. The Boy Scouts Got It Too And maybe the Boy Scouts figured out the key to happiness, too! Helping others! This image of a Boy Scout helping an old lady across the street (or doing other good deeds) is more than just an act of kindness. It may actually be good for you too. Volunteer, give what you can (your time is free). And see what changes you notice in your outlook on life! I wish you a Happy Thanksgiving! What will you be grateful for this year? Images via  http://www.scoutstuff.org  and  http://www.smithsonianmag.com