If you have someone and something to say thank you for, but you don’t know where to start, write a letter. Even if you don’t send it, thanking you on paper will add optimism and reduce anxiety.
Evolution has endowed us with impressive adaptive abilities that allow us to cope with most difficulties. We adapt so much that we end up not only taking for granted most of the good things in our lives, but also, perpetually dissatisfied, comparing ourselves to others to note everything that we lack. But the comparison breeds feelings of frustration and envy, and evokes a persistent sense of unhappiness. And one of the most effective ways to deal with it is to develop a sense of gratitude for what we have. Gratitude increases well-being and optimism, reduces anxiety, and makes us feel connected to others.1.
An exercise
Think of a person who has had a positive impact on your life. A teacher, a family member or friend who believed in you or helped you, an employer who gave you a chance… Visualize this person. What memories are associated with it? What did you get from him or what did he teach you? How did it influence your life path? Now write him a letter to thank him for everything he brought you, even if you have already done it before. Most importantly, do not limit yourself, generously express gratitude. Ideally, read the letter to the addressee or send it to him. If this is not possible for objective reasons, just re-read, paying attention to your experiences. You can also make a “Gift List” by writing down five things you want to say thank you for once a week.
1 Journal of Happiness Studies, 2015 (16).