Insight Into The Importance of Gratitude in Recovery

Gratitude is also the antidote to negative thinking that reduces hope and happiness. People who dwell on the negative aspects in their lives almost always find it difficult to reach a state of contentment. In recovery, excessive negative emotions put people at risk for relapse. This is not to say negative emotions should be overlooked or ignored, but obsessive or continuous negative thinking is hazardous to a healthy recovery. One of the simplest and most effective ways to practice gratitude is to keep a gratitude journal.

Why Is Gratitude Important in Recovery?

The flip side is being resentful and seeing what’s wrong in life, not what’s right. And no matter which way we choose to look, there will be plenty to be found of both. When you communicate with other people, express what you are thankful for. If you accomplished something at work, don’t be afraid to pat yourself on the back and let people know how happy it made you. When others share their successes, listen, and let their gratitude rub off on you too.

• Practicing gratitude keeps the ego in check, your feet on the ground, and your head out of the clouds.
• Practicing gratitude daily can improve mental and physical health by fostering positive thinking, energy, and confidence, thus leading to a healthier recovery 1.
• There are many sources of inspiration one can draw on when recovering from substance abuse, and gratitude is the key that unlocks them.
• Those suffering from substance abuse or addiction tend to show signs of depression, and are self-centered, only thinking of their own needs.

Gratitude improves your relationships.

A grateful person knows sobriety is essential to healing the harm caused by addiction to themselves and to others. As you practice gratitude in recovery, https://ecosoberhouse.com/ it’s also important to remember the bad times. Even if today wasn’t your best, have perspective on how far you’ve come. Your progress is an achievement, and you can only appreciate the good when you acknowledge the bad. Practicing gratitude is one of the most popular early recovery topics.

How Do You Keep a Grateful Attitude Over Time?

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Mindfulness helps you focus on all those everyday events and experiences that make you feel positive – and grateful. If you’re already using a journal to support your recovery, you can add a gratitude section or allot part of every entry to record things that why is gratitude important in recovery you’re grateful for that day. You may also want to create a dedicated gratitude journal to keep you focused. Journaling has a long-established history as a tool for self-discovery and healing. Journal therapy is a part of many kinds of counseling and group work, but anyone can use a journal to explore feelings, process events, and create conditions for change.