One of the first steps to becoming Mindful is to begin to notice what’s going on inside your mind. By becoming conscious of your thoughts, feelings and emotions, you begin to realize that you have choices about them.

A way in which you can confirm this is to consider the idea of positive thinking. Is it possible to consciously start to think more positively about the world?

At this time of year, it is the custom to give thanks for the bounties of the earth and for the good things in your life. Why not take a few minutes during this time to write down things for which you’re grateful? The act of doing this begins to change a fundamental part of your thought mechanisms; you’ll find that, as you consider the positives in your life, more of them appear. You begin to see the brighter side, you look for positive experiences, you see that you can indeed change the thoughts you think for the better.

A gratitude list can be used to help you overcome negative moments. I have a list on my phone and I add to it on a regular basis. If I’m ever on a downward path, I look at the list and choose something that appeals to me to think about. I’ll go into the details of the memories I have and see just how good this memory makes me feel. I immerse myself in the thoughts for a few minutes. If I still feel negative or even just flat, I’ll find another memory and do the same again. Almost always, my perspective will change and I’ll be lighter and clearer about life.

To start a Gratitude List:

• Take a few minutes out of your day and find a quiet space.
• Find a convenient way for you to capture your thoughts. I use the Notes app on my phone, but a journal works well, too.
• Begin to step away from your current preoccupations and come into the moment. If you meditate, you can use that process to slow your mind, or use the concept of No Mind.
• Start to think about the things that make you feel good, that you’re grateful for. Why does it still feel so good? Remember all the little details, sensory inputs (sights, smells, touches, tastes and sounds) and feelings. The stronger the feelings, the more fully the memories will change your current perspective.
• Write the memories down; keep going until you feel you have a good start.
• By this time, you will almost certainly be feeling better within. Congratulations on making an important effort to improve your mental state!
• Over the next few days, add to the list, dwell upon its contents and make it a habit to do so. As you live in these more positive aspects of your mind, you will notice change happening.

Please let me know how this experience affects you by responding below – I’m betting you feel better more of the time!

Happy Thanksgiving!