Discovering Gratitude
Why be grateful?
Amidst the daily chaos and demands of life, it can be difficult to think of things for which you are thankful. However, taking the time time to consider and reflect on your gratitude can have a positive effect on your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
A long-term study at UC Berkeley, for example, showed that gratitude can potentially counteract depression, improve sleep, and decrease inflammation, in addition to creating a more positive mental state.
Discovering Your Gratitude
Every person's gratitude is unique. Take a moment to discover your own gratitude based on where you are today -- physically, in your education, on your way to a career, and with friends and family -- and what brought you to this point. If you're still stuck, here are some possible things to jumpstart your thoughts:
- Your family and friends
- Classes, your major, or a student club you're part of
- A professor who has inspired you or provided extra help
- A special talent or gift you have
- A mentor or best friend who's been there to guide you
- Someone else considering you their mentor or best friend
- The opportunity to learn so you can go out and change the world
- The opportunity to receive a world-class education