Waiting in a long line at the grocery store, ugh.

Stuck in traffic, ugh.

Late for work, ugh.

Children taking forever to get moving, ugh.

Co-workers constant complaining, ugh.

This list could go on and on. What irritates you?

What makes you say, “ugh.” Or maybe say “UGHHHHHHHHHHH!”

Recently I did some thinking about why many things no longer bother me. Don’t get me wrong, I am still bothered by things- they are generally different things then they used to be and my reactions to them are smaller. I also notice when I am feeling irritated much sooner. (So I can course correct more quickly-leaving less damage behind. Because you better believe these irritations cause damage – to you AND to others.)

How did this evolution occur?

It’s the gratitude muscle!

Did you ever decide to get stronger at something and feel like it should happen instantly? Wait, I went to the gym and did bicep curls once, why aren’t I stronger yet?

No, of course not. We know that it takes weeks to months to begin to feel and see results.

It is the same result with gratitude. You have to work the muscle, over and over, day by day – INTENTIONALLY and with DISCIPLINE.

What does that mean?

It means having a journal or notebook and deciding to write down 1-3 things you are grateful for every single day.

It means driving by the accident that made you late for work and taking a minute to pray for the person that was inside of the mangled car and being thankful you and your family were spared.

It means knowing that many people are doing their best but are operating from exhaustion, defeat, and pain. They don’t realize they are spewing their hardness onto everyone around them.

But we know. Now, our light has been turned on and we know how blessed we are.

But, do we practice it?

Starting next week, we will begin another 90 Day Gratitude Challenge – and I have a surprise for all of you who want to join in!

Here are some of what my students who have gone through the last 90 days have shared:

They have a greater peace and awareness of their blessings

They are able to see joy in challenging places

They are happier!

I will announce the official start next Monday and share how we will enter this challenge!!

If you are ready to literally change how you see the world and drop your small irritations and see joy in the middle of hard places, reply! You can even just type “I’m IN!”

Living in gratitude was one of the biggest pieces that has changed my life forever. I really am so excited to share this new way of being with you!

I can’t wait to hear from you!

You matter. Your life matters. It is time to live the life that you were born to live.

Love,

Rachel