Coaching Corner: I appreciate ...
By Marilou Butcher Roth, Master Coach
For as many Thanksgivings as I can remember, my mother would consistently have us go around the table and share what we were thankful for. I also remember not enjoying the process. As an adult, although I do not enforce her tradition, I certainly have grown to realize the value of appreciation, not just on that special Thursday, but throughout the year.
Appreciation is a concept you have heard from me before and from countless others, touting the benefits of identifying those things and people that we find important and special.
This is one of those activities that promotes well-being if practiced regularly--and it does take practice. It can be far easier to find the problems in life, which doesn’t provide any benefit of appreciation.
What if you began each day with the intention of actually finding things to appreciate? Yes, look for them, seek them out wherever you go and whatever you are doing. Look around right now--what do you see that you can be thankful for? I’ll do it with you. I am appreciating the beautiful blue sky and how the few remaining yellow leaves are somewhat glistening from the rays of the sun. Okay, now it’s your turn.
Here’s the thing--one of the quickest and most effective ways to shift your mood, is to move into a state of appreciation. It works!
So, next week as we enjoy the holiday of being grateful, do just that! You may be surprised at how easy it is.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all!