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The Power of Gratitude making life Happier

With the festive season upon us, it is probably pertinent to remember the skill of gratitude which is one of the best virtues and integral to happiness. Cultivating gratitude in our children, is teaching them much more than a polite, “thank-you”. We’re helping them develop a strength that will positively affect their mental health and wellbeing over a lifetime. It’s that powerful.  Just like we insist upon those good manners, then sincere gratitude can become a part of their everyday life  too. It’s worth persevering.

The science tells us that compared with those who don’t, people who practice gratitude are more enthusiastic, more determined, perform better at school, are more likely to avoid risky behaviours, experience less depression and envy, are more kind and helpful, sleep better and are 25 per cent happier.

Adolescents with a grateful mindset are more optimistic and experience greater social support, which is essential to their health and happiness. They experience more fulfilling friendships and family relationships, are more content in themselves and with their school, have higher grades and are less focused on material possessions.

Practicing gratitude is a sure-fire way to boost happiness, something we absolutely want for ourselves and for our children. In addition, teaching our children genuine appreciation helps them develop strong relationships over the course of their lives, and we know that strong relationships are critical to our overall happiness.

Sincere Gratitude isn’t just good for the receiver.  It can lift the spirits of the people who hear this as well and can positively affect relationships.

As a parent, the best place to start is to model gratitude. Share your stories and let your children see you doing and being grateful for even the smallest of things. See and talk about a “silver lining” in most situations.  At dinner ask everyone to name something that they are thankful for from the day. Don’t let it be a chore with forcing the issue if there is some resistance but don’t give up either, as it feels good to be grateful and this is what your children want to feel.

According to Dr. Jodi Richards (wellbeing and happiness speaker), there are three fundamental ideas behind supporting your child to be grateful. 

1. Awareness that someone has purposely done something to benefit them 
2. Awareness that the benefit to you actually cost that person something    
3. Awareness that the benefit of that person’s actions is valuable to them

Be on the lookout to fan the flames of our children’s passions and yearnings to make a difference in the lives of others. Step-by-step, day-by-day, we can raise grateful young people who are happier because of their perspective, and who lead rich and fulfilling lives because of what they do for others.

Adapted from an article from, Parentingideas.com.au

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