Regardless of your religious or cultural background, the end of the year is usually a time for gathering with family and friends, reflecting on the year, and planning for the future. It is also a time of increased stress and pressure to consume; whether that consumption is related to food or the biggest, newest, fastest, most popular toy or gadget. We are bombarded from images in the media and advertising designed to influence our purchasing decisions. We may also feel pressure to meet the perceived expectations of family and friends to bring the best dessert to the party or buy top-of-the-line gifts.

Our consumer society isn’t going to change any time soon. So, how do we combat the pressures that sometimes overshadow the end of the year celebrations and gatherings with friends and family?

The answer is surprisingly, very simple. It is free, accessible to everyone, and readily available day or night. The answer is Gratitude.

In the simplest terms, gratitude is the act of appreciating what is present in your life. Expressing gratitude involves shifting your focus away from what you wish you had and turning your attention to the conditions that serve you in your life. Gratitude is also one of the most important things that you can do in your effort to incorporate self-care into your professional practices.

In this month’s newsletter, we will explore the benefits of gratitude, ways that you can cultivate more gratitude in your life, and how to introduce this concept to the children in your care.

For the article Research on Gratitude – The Benefits, CLICK HERE

For the article Things to be Grateful For, CLICK HERE

For the article Strategies for Adults, CLICK HERE

For the article Introducing Gratitude to Children, CLICK HERE