Daily: Reflect on at least 5 things for which I'm grateful (Happiness Manifesto #2)

I am in a good place right now. It’s funny, I was so unhappy a few weeks ago when my therapist reminded me to keep a gratitude journal, and I was dreading therapy today. Now I’m not.

I am grateful:

• that my friend appreciates the purple bracelet (inspired by A Complaint-Free World) that I made for her
• for good friends that think of me and include me in their plans
• for my raise!
• that I seem to be doing better at work, and enjoying my supervisors
• that I made it to the gym today

I have much to learn in this practice of gratitude. Last night, I went bowling with a group of folks who do land use planning, and one gentleman I met, who smirked at my current job (which I fully acknowledge is not compatible with certain parts of my personality), drew an interesting contrast for me. I was whining about my job, and he stopped me and suggested that those who have the jobs I desire have other issues, and that I’m blessed in many ways.

I’ve been writing here for a while, and yet when given the chance, my default complaint response ALWAYS kicks in. It occurs to me that I am feeding into it even now.

I am grateful for that moment, because it helped make me more aware of my need to be vigilant, mindful of how I view the world in terms of deficits. I hope to develop the capacity to accept the world as it is.

I’m finishing up a visit to my old stomping grounds in Southern California, so I have plenty of fodder for this list!

I am grateful:

• That my grandparents are still alive.
• For my dad’s health and financial well-being.
• That I got to see three good friends from times past.
• That I didn’t spend too much money while I was here.
• That I get to go home today!

I haven’t been focused on registering my gratitude over the last week. I’ll try to do better this week.

For today, I am grateful:

That even though I can’t seem to reestablish my relationship with someone I thought was a very good friend, I am not going to torpedo my entire social life while I process the disappointment.

That I had fun with my friends on St. Patrick’s day.

That someone called to ask me to a movie, even though I kinda chickened out.

That I have a renewed interest in getting better about saving money and paying off bills.

For a fun hike in the foothills with my friends yesterday.

For the ability to know when I am annoying to others, and to not overreact to it even if it upsets me.

Today, I am grateful:

1) That I got assigned to a cool new project at work. With a good team!

2) That I have good friends to rely on in tough times.

3) That I managed to clean and organize my bathroom. I always feel better when I am getting clutter under control.

4) That no matter what, I stay true to my desire to be the best person I can be.

5) That lately, I seem to be attracting more attention from objectively cute guys. (I know, that’s kinda frivolous, but I need to be reminded that I’m not a plain jane sometimes.)

Today, I am grateful:

1) That I am almost done with this project.
2) That I had the courage to make a counseling appointment, and that that appt. is tomorrow evening.
3) That I am physically healthy, if not mentally.
4) That I’ll have another chance to prove myself.
5) For the sanctuary I have among friends.

I am grateful:

1) That when I called to set up a counseling appointment at the local university counseling program, an appointment was available, and that the entire semester will cost me less than $100.

2) For one of the best yoga sessions I’ve had at the gym in a long time.

3) That I made it to the gym this morning for a good cardio workout.

4) For the chance to try to improve, always.

5) For a good conversation with a friend, and a tasty dinner of mash, peas and wine. Which sounds gross written out, but was very good.

Lots to be grateful for in the past week:

• That I haven’t been booted despite dismal work performance of late
• That I have some insight into what I can do to improve
• That I have supporting friends willing to let me cry on their shoulders
• That I had new fun people to go to Stitches West with.
• That despite my issues with work, I seem to be faring well in the personal life context.

I am grateful for:

• resolution, happy or sad, because a decision is easier to process than avoidance
• a good evening of food and drink for a friend’s birthday celebration
• a little attention from the dudes this week
• that I found a great gift for a good friend
• that my car is still running, even if it has eletrical issues

I haven’t been keeping up with this. Time to reinstate!

Today, I am grateful:

• That I still have a job
• That I have heard about an opening at another organization that looks pretty sweet.
• That my professor wants to help me publish a paper based on my thesis.
• That I have such great friends.
• That it’s Friday!