Everything we go through serves a purpose, and we can definitely learn from each experience. We are all both students throughout life and teachers. I know it can be hard to realize this, especially when we’re going through a rough patch. But we can release the weight on our minds by being thankful through it all.

Keep these 5 tips in mind to discover the power of gratitude and appreciation:

*There’s Always Something
Maybe you are thinking you have nothing to be grateful for, so why bother? This way of looking at life is limiting- growth and change can’t happen in a limited mind. There’s always something to be thankful for, so…

*Writing Makes Us Happy
Keep a notebook by your bed. Before you go to sleep, take a few moments to reflect, and write down at least 5 things you are grateful for each day. Start with the obvious, and let it grow. Don’t worry- if you’re having a cruddy day, and feel the “WHY ME?” syndrome,  this exercise will DEFINITELY pull you out of your funk before it becomes an issue!

You can be thankful for the great parking space you got at the store, the delicious eggs you ate in the morning, the sound of your friends laughing, the list goes on and on! It’s amazing to see how this simple exercise will completely change your attitude towards life.

*No Judgment
We are own worst critics. If you spend time judging your life or your situations, you miss opportunities for growth and gratitude. So, things don’t always go perfectly. That’s ok! There is a reason, and one day it might be revealed. Trust that there is something to be thankful for in every event, and learn from it.

*Be the Inspiration
A thankful individual inspires people. When we meet someone who is authentic and grateful, we are motivated to give thanks, too! So, be the inspiration. The best part is, you may not ever know the effect you’ve had, but the Universe and God know. And, remember, karma my friends, karma-  the world delivers back what we give- it’s a win-win for us all!

*We Have Everything We Need
Believing in one’s self is a huge factor for success.We are all complete, capable, whole, resourceful, and perfect now – in this moment. We live up to the image we hold of ourselves. Remember, we have everything we need to envision and attract abundance, so let’s be thankful for it!