The power of gratitude

Noticing the things we are grateful for isn’t just a “feel‑good” exercise, it’s a way of supporting our long‑term mental wellbeing. Taking opportunities in our daily lives to recognise what’s going well, or to show appreciation for things and people around us, can help us feel more uplifted and able to cope with life’s challenges. Over time this habit can help spread positive wellbeing, both for ourselves and for people around us.

Tips for practicing gratitude

Gratitude can be a quiet, personal reflection or a shared community experience.

Personal practice

• Write it down: It can be helpful to keep a physical record of your thoughts.
• Reflect daily: Make it an everyday personal activity to notice what you are thankful for.

Being grateful together

If you work with people and communities, try these activities to build collective wellbeing:

• Gratitude noticeboard: Create a visual reminder where people can pin things they are thankful for.
• Open with gratitude: Start your meetings or activities by inviting people to share one thing they are grateful for today.
• Encourage others: Help those around you to think about the moments, things or people they appreciate.

Finding inspiration

Sometimes it is difficult to know where to start. If you find it hard to feel thankful, use these prompts to guide your thoughts:

• Small joys: What little things in life make you feel happy?
• Connections: Who do you love or care for?
• The world around you: Have you spotted anything recently that was so beautiful it made you pause and reflect?
• Kindness: Has someone been kind to you recently?
• Achievements: Is there something you have done that you are proud of?
• Looking ahead: What are you looking forward to?

Click here to download our ‘Practicing Gratitude’ tool, which provides a summary of information in this article, including practical hints and tips.

For more information and guidance on supporting wellbeing conversations in the community, visit ‘Promoting wellbeing in the community‘ resources.