Every morning I wake up and start my day with 2 simple words—thank you. The move acknowledges that I’m grateful to be alive, present and in a body. Believe it or not, I do this before anything else in the morning, even before I reach for my phone. I say thank you for all of the blessings in my life, of which, there are many. I try to place my focus on all that I have and away from what is missing. I take a moment to acknowledge the good in the world, even during some challenging times. Starting my day with an attitude of gratitude helps me get into the right frame of mind to go out into the world with positivity and allows me the courage and strength to add value wherever I can by making a difference in other people’s lives. Some people might argue that gratitude comes more easily to those who have attained great wealth or success. But that would be a mistake. Gratitude doesn’t make you wealthy. But it can make you rich.

Here’s what I mean.

My morning routine not only helps me have a more successful day, but also fends off feelings of anger or fear that occasionally pop up and can lead to knee jerk reactions and poor choices. You can't be fearful and grateful at the same time. It’s physically impossible. So if you want to beat those negative emotions, you need to operate from an attitude of gratitude until it becomes second nature.

An attitude of gratitude is a learned habit. You can create this habit by implementing a routine of gratitude you weave throughout your day. So many business leaders I know use this strategy in their lives. Arianna Huffington, Jack Dorsey and Tony Robbins are just a few who have inspired me on my journey. Taking a few moments each day to acknowledge what you’re grateful for is key and manageable for anyone at any age or stage of their career. As Tony Robbins says, “If you don't have 10 minutes for your life, then you don't have a life. There's no excuse."

Several studies have shown that gratitude for even the simplest tasks can improve many aspects of your life, such as personal well being and others’ happiness. It can also boost workplace morale and engagement, helping you become better with others.

If you think you're too busy for a gratitude routine, you're mistaken but certainly not alone. Even the best of us get caught up in our obligations and the demands others place on us. One thing I know for sure is whenever I stray from my gratitude habit, I feel less joy in my life. And at this stage of my life, joy is the jackpot.

If you've broken your own gratitude routine or have never exercised an attitude of gratitude, find simple ways to work thankfulness into your daily routine. Make a note of something you feel grateful for in the moment. Take a beat to enjoy the feeling of warm sunshine or a cool breeze. Share what you’re thankful for with others. Let them know what they mean to you and how lucky you are to have them in your life. It’s so easy. And once you start, you won’t want to stop. You glow with goodness. Remember, gratitude isn’t about how much money you have in the bank. It’s about celebrating small moments—perhaps those shared with loved ones, having some time alone or even that perfect cup of coffee in the morning. For me, it’s making time to go to spin class. It’s meeting with good friends, sharing laughter and love. What are you grateful for?

As we go into the 2019, make a commitment to yourself to live with gratitude. To develop the habit of being thankful. To cherish all that you have over what you don't have. You'll be amazed at the result.

Gratitude Is The Right Attitude Photo Credits - Linda Loeffler