Gratitude. Is there always something to be thankful for?

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I find as a mother, or maybe just as a woman, I tend to overanalyze, over plan, over think…  I compare myself to others who appear (via their social media updates and pictures) to have lives that are easier, more exciting, or better than mine for one reason or another.  I find myself wishing for more and comparing myself to other women, especially mothers and business owners.  I find myself not practicing gratitude.

gratitude

I came across a post a while back: “10 Gratitude Principles to Live By” and it helped set my mind straight when it comes to having gratitude, being thankful for what I have in my life and reminded me to not fixate on what others seem to have, that I do not.  I think as a mom, this is a really easy thing to fall into.  Doubt.  Envy.  The feeling of inadequacy.  Comparing yourself to other moms. Please take a moment and read over the principles below.

  1. Gratitude is awareness that, as things come to you, they are exactly what you need – be it people, circumstance, or challenges
  2. Worry is the opposite of gratitude; it is the failure to understand that you have been and will continue to be provided for each day.
  3. Whenever fear over your future encroaches, stop to observe a tree. Consider how the tree continues to stand tall and grow throughout the various cycles and seasons of its life span.
  4. Worry is an action. Gratitude is an action. Both are optional. By choosing gratitude you drive out the space and time for worry.
  5. It isn’t hard to do; gratitude is simply noticing the good stuff in your life.
  6. What you pay attention to, or notice, tends to expand and grow.
  7. Each day brings a multitude of opportunities to feel gratitude and appreciation.
  8. When you neglect the action of appreciating, you limit your potential for joy and contentment in the present moment.
  9. Worry does not prevent bad things from happening; it only prevents you from accessing joy in this moment.
  10. The present moment is the only place where joy and contentment can exist.

Pay special attention to the 6th principle (which I bolded).  I think this is the most important.  Do not worry about what others have that you think you want or need.  Dwelling in these negative thoughts and emotions will only make it so there are more of those in your life.  Let them go.  I printed these “Gratitude Principles” and put them on my fridge to remind myself of all the positive things I have in my life.  I know, it sounds too simple to work but it really does remind you what is important.  Don’t sweat the small stuff!  Ha!  I am not good at this but I am trying to be better.  I tend to over think and get really worked up about little bumps in the road.  Stressed over paying your bills?  Be grateful you have bills, as it means there is a roof over your head.  Are you having problems at/with work?  Be grateful you have work.  Having trouble with your kids at home or in school?  Be thankful that your children are alive and healthy.  There is always something to be thankful for.

Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.”
― Eckhart Tolle

I hope that this post helps lift the weight off your shoulders and reminds you that you are loved and have wonderful things in your life. Be thankful for everything, the good and maybe even the not so good.   And remember, you are doing an amazing job, especially as a mother! 🙂

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Stacey
Stacey is the owner of North Phoenix Moms Blog and Dream Photography Studio. She is a dreamer and nerd at heart, which explains her love for all things Disney, SciFi and musical theatre. As a Phoenix native, she has fallen in love with the city she was born in, and all it has to offer. She is an advocate for locally owned small business and loves the arts. She considers herself to be a bit of a foodie; she also enjoys cooking, hiking and watching movies. The two main men in her life, her husband and son, have completely stolen her heart. She is super excited and proud to lead North Phoenix Moms Blog.

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