I love Positive Psychology! I teach it to my clients as a powerful tool and want to share the steps with you today. Gratitude is researched and recognized as a significant factor that supports our well-being. A favorite acronym that helps to remind me that I have the power to live with purpose and intention (my clients are familiar with these terms!) is S.T.A.G.E.. If you give it a try, you may notice an increase in your contentment.
Savor – prolong the enjoyment of the moment. You can do this by anticipating a fun event or relaxing encounter, by focusing on your surroundings and what is happening right now, and by reminiscing about a pleasant memory.
Thank – express appreciation of others out loud, not just in thoughts and prayers. Is there someone you haven’t thanked properly? An old-school card, a well-timed brief phone call or voicemail, or even a well-worded text not only helps you, it helps them.
Aspire – develop or maintain optimism about meaningful goals. Perhaps there is a book you always wanted to read, a poem you wanted to write, or any number of skills or hobbies to sharpen or develop. It doesn’t have to be big. Make it happen!
Give – give of yourself. There are countless ways to give a little (or a lot) to others, your community and for the overall well-being of all living things. Opportunities for acts of kindness, courtesy, and generosity are all around us every single day if we are looking for them.
Empathize – have compassion and understanding for others. From professional and personal experience, most of us want very much to be understood. Try to imagine walking in the shoes of someone you have not considered before.
Sometimes it’s challenging to establish new, positive, mindful habits. If you’re struggling, consider calling a counselor to set up a consultation appointment. As counselors, we deeply appreciate our clients’ courage, motivation, and trust.
And remember…November is finally here! Colorful trees, cooler temperatures, birthdays of loved ones (and mine, too) — such a beautiful month. Before we are swept up in the pre-Christmas consumerism, let us take time to be grateful and content. Our cups are really overflowing. I wish you a Thanksgiving richly filled with gratitude and an abundance of love.
