Being Thankful vs. Having Gratitude - Seeing Opportunity
- John Foley
- Jan 5, 2017
- 2 min read
As we gather with our friends and family this holiday season, thankfulness and gratitude are top of mind. Sharing the things we are thankful for is a tradition that defines this season of goodwill. It’s also an opportunity to tap into a mindset that has the power to elevate our performance, and our general well being.
The key realization comes from a slight distinction. Ask yourself, what is the difference between thankfulness, and gratitude? Are you using them interchangeably?
At John Foley CenterPoint Companies, when we talk about “Glad To Be Here,” we’re talking about something far deeper than thanks. When you directly receive something, that’s the time to be thankful. I’m thankful for my job and the paycheck that provides for me and those that I love, but I’m grateful for my work. I’m thankful for a holiday weekend and the opportunity to relax, but I’m grateful for the relationships with family and friends. I’m thankful to be given tasks that I can execute well, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to work towards a purpose larger than myself. Thankfulness is something that you offer to others in exchange for their kindness. Gratitude is something that comes from within yourself, and that you give to the world around you.
Finding that distinction for yourself can have a powerful impact on your actions. Gratitude is a state of being that grows because of our awareness of WHAT is going on around us. Almost all of us have something to be grateful for right now in this moment, whether that’s job, family, environment or just positive circumstances. Gratitude isn’t as much about being triggered, it’s about being submerged in a mindset that can benefit us on a daily basis. Gratitude is a unique mind-state that allows the mind to see new opportunities and formulate creative, positive solutions to difficult problems.
Spend some time this holiday season reflecting on the difference between thankfulness and gratefulness in your own life. Personally, I employ a tool I call The Glad To Be Here Wakeup in order to keep my mind aligned on the things that make me grateful to be alive and to be here in this present moment. Starting this journey is as simple as affirming your intention.
Glad To Be Here!
~Gucci
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