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What comes to your mind when you hear something is routine? For most of us, the word is associated with being humdrum. Unremarkable. Maybe even…boring. Routines are practices that occur regularly, are entirely predictable and are never surprising. Being routine hardly sounds interesting, let alone exciting.
And yet, routines form the cornerstone for so many important and positive aspects of our lives. Good health is the result of the routines of eating nourishing food, staying fit, and getting decent sleep. Being successful in a sport or artform comes from the routine of regular practice and skills training. Building wealth over time is achieved through the routine of saving a portion of income each year. Having deep, meaningful relationships stem from the routines of investing time in others, listening attentively, regularly showing love, and exhibiting an understanding spirit. Being known as a kind person is borne through the routine of showing kindness to everyone, and not just a select few.
As we look to the month of November and Thanksgiving holiday ahead, I commend a routine good for every season: practicing gratitude. It’s like a muscle that’s strengthened with regular use. Gratitude is a perspective—an approach—that prompts us to notice the positive things in our lives—no matter the particular circumstance we find ourselves in. We can be grateful for the cup of coffee that gets us going, rather than grumbling about needing more sleep. We can appreciate the car that gets us to work, rather than complain we don’t have a zippier one. We can focus on the good traits of others, rather than thinking first of their shortcomings.
And guess what: an amazing thing happens when we practice gratitude. We become happier people. More resilient people. More pleasant people to be around, better able to see joys and possibilities, rather than problems and obstacles.
Practicing gratitude. Humdrum? Hardly. May it be a routine you practice regularly, predictably and reliably. It’s one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and those around you.
Kathryn Carroll offers one-on-one coaching, listening and support for individuals facing transitions and dilemmas. She also offers workshops and retreats on a variety of life issues. Learn more by visiting www.conversationswithkatie.org or emailing her at conversationswithkatie@gmail.com
