As we learn to navigate our new normal (for a little while at least) and adapt to a period of physical distancing, it’s interesting to observe the impact on the perception of life that some of us are having.
In among all the fear and anxiety, there are also insights and recognition that even in this time of challenge there is much to be grateful for. It seems that more and more people are starting to notice and consider what truly does matter and is important to them.
Collectively, those who consistently go about their daily work of helping others, be it the refuse collectors, postal delivery people, retail workers, cleaners, delivery drivers, police, firefighters and of course our beloved health care workers, are being recognised and applauded for all that they do for us everyday.
Side note here – this list of public servants is not exhaustive and there are many more to add to all the people who humbly contribute to their communities in big and small ways.
Perhaps this is a time when we can all use any extra moments that we may have been blessed with to really ask ourselves:
What matters most right now?
What do I really like/love about my life?
Who do I need to appreciate?
What/who do I need to nurture?
Of course, in times of challenge it can be incredibly hard to be thankful and the only option becomes to reach a point of acceptance, as a way of moving through in our own time.
Finding out what really matters to us could be the opportunity to grow through this period of uncertainty and move us forward with a clearer sense of meaning and expanded grateful hearts.
How can I express my gratitude more?
Being thankful and focusing on what we do have enriches lives and relationships and finding reasons to be thankful builds resilience and mental strength – we need that right now. Undertaking any research on gratitude soon affirms that it is a choice and a practice. A muscle if you will, that can be trained to work to enhance the lives of you and those around you.
So starting from today who or what can you be thankful for and how will you show it?
The Midlife Mash Up 
Leave a comment