If writing and keeping journals is not a preferred pastime of yours, alternatively you can cultivate gratitude by meditating upon the topic, perhaps by incorporating it into your pre-existing yoga or meditation rituals.
Self-soothing mantras (repeated self-statements) such as “I have many things to be grateful for in this life” or “In spite of my difficulties, life is still good and there are multiple reasons for me to be thankful” are helpful reminders. The more we rewire our brains to default to positive thoughts of gratitude, the more this way of thinking will become autopilot.
See also: Seeking Solitude: 8 Places To Meditate In Hong Kong
In the end, an “attitude of gratitude” might take a little effort to achieve but it is not by any means impossible. And the more we practice this thinking style, the easier and quicker it is when it becomes an ingrained, automatic habit. You’ll thank yourself for this mindset, and this thankfulness will ripple out into all aspects of your life.
Dr. Michael Eason is a psychologist and US licensed therapist practising at MindnLife in Central, Hong Kong.