I started this year’s collection of sticky-notes six days ago. This year, I choose to be a little bolder with my gratitude. I choose to display them on the outside of my door.

I very passionately believe that anything can be a community building task if you engage in it, I also put out some sticky-notes and markers so others could join in.

However, it’s day six; and the only notes on that door are mine.

That’s ok; I think the more people see them, the more comfortable they will become with it.

What I do want to talk about is what I’ve noticed as I’ve been practicing gratitude.

– I’m more excited to wake up. (Because like, I get to be grateful for another thing in my life!)

– I’m happier throughout the day. (Starting my day off with gratitude is an easy way to maintain the joy.)

– I’m more patient in the midst of chaos. (Go ahead, sir. I mean, we’re all getting on the same train anyway, but you can absolutely cut in front of me! No big deal.)

– I’m more appreciative of the things that I have. (Family, friends, food, internet, coffee, you get the gist.)

– I find it easier to be thankful for the little things. (The things I’m really grateful for may seem silly, but they mean a lot. Encouraging texts from friends, real mail, the leaves outside, the crisp fall air, etc. These things are often under-appreciated taking time to be grateful for them has shifted my perspective.)

But don’t just take it from me. Here’s what the experts say about gratitude.

– “Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.” – Harvard

– “Appreciation, when cultivated, can improve health and relationships. Benefits included higher energy levels, progress in achieving personal goals, improved sleep quality, and better-coping responses.” – Matthew McConaughey

– “Gratitude, therefore, affords you the opportunity to enjoy life’s little moments each day. It momentarily allows us to hit the “pause” button and reflect on what is going right in our lives.” – Viraj Patel

– “We found that gratitude increases people’s self control, and it increases their ability to wait,” – Time

So, what are you waiting for? Gratitude has a handful of amazing benefits! Grab your sticky-notes and get to work!

PS: Don’t forget to hashtag those photos with #stickynotegratitude!