Often times we fail to give thanks for the things that have gone right in our lives. We are so focused on getting to the next thing, that we don’t pause and have gratitude for what we have accomplished. When you operate with an attitude of gratitude it will take time and commitment to see it through. It can be difficult at times to keep up with the habit of giving thanks especially on the days when there is a lot of stress. As you continue to put this way of life into practice, you will see life from a positive view and it can help to alleviate some of life's stresses. Vince Lombardi once said, "practice doesn't make perfect, only perfect practice makes perfect."
I remember when I was in ministry and our youth pastors gave us a formula for winning the day. What does that mean? Each day they would write 5 things in their mini notebook the night before that they wanted to accomplish. When they completed those five things, they have won their day, therefore celebrating the small wins. A sample example of the 5 things could be:
1. Give thanks for a new day.
2. Make your bed.
3. Wash your face.
4. Drink a full glass of water before having your coffee.
5. Call a loved one.
Once they accomplished all 5 of their tasks, they would write a huge W on the page for that day as a win.
Now I altered the way I won my day. I considered me taking the time to even write my list a win in my book. And if all 5 things weren’t accomplished for whatever reason, those would be added to the next day’s list. Too many times we are so focused on the BIG GOAL that we don’t take the time to give thanks for the small goal. For me, I was always winning because I was being intentional.
These days, I do my best to write a journal entry every night before I sleep. It causes me to reflect on the day and my accomplishments, things that went right and things that I can work on. There are times that my day is going so fast, that it takes major brain power to remember what happened and by being consistent in this practice I hold myself accountable. By me reflecting every night I am celebrating my accomplishments no matter how small they may be.
The bible tells us in Philippians 4:4 to be cheerful with joyous celebration in every season of life. So, make sure you are celebrating yourself daily. Each new day brings new opportunities and a new chance to succeed. Remember that each one of our successes are different from the next persons and only we know what we are doing to win. Make sure you are taking the time to reflect and give thanks.
Sending you love, light and positive vibes,
Cassie K.
"Always remember to LIVE life to the fullest, to LAUGH at everything and to LOVE unconditionally."