A little gratitude can work wonders. In fact, it’s scientifically proven that gratitude makes us healthier. Studies upon studies have shown that people who express thanks regularly have positive social relationships, feel more relaxed, make better decisions and are generally happier people. Sounds good, right?
It’s not always possible to proclaim your heartfelt gratitude in person. Thankfully, today, it’s easier than ever before to show your thankfulness. From apps to trending hashtags, there are so many creative venues for spreading a little positivity from the comfort of your smartphone. Here are five easy ways to get on the (digital) path to an attitude of gratitude.
Keep a digital gratitude journal
There are a number of apps that focus on cultivating a spirit of thankfulness. The Gratitude! app challenges users to write five things they’re grateful for every day. Developers found that recording gratitude consecutively for three weeks created a brighter outlook and a new habit of happiness. Plus, it’s pretty cool to be able to look back on all of the things that made you thankful. Other apps to try include Gratitude 365 and The Gratitude Journal.
Take a thankfulness challenge
You may have seen one of these challenges floating around your Facebook newsfeed at one point or another. The premise is simple: Every day for a week, two weeks or a month, post what you’re thankful for. Hesitant to be so public? Try private messaging different friends every day, letting them know why you’re grateful to have them in your life.
Get some Twitter inspiration
Twitter can get clouded quickly with rants and raves, but several trending hashtags prompt sharing your appreciation all year long. Follow the hashtags #AttitudeofGratitude, #WhyImThankful and #Thankful to read through thousands of reasons people all over the world are giving thanks, and tweet your own to join the uplifting conversation.
Commit to the “thank you” e-mail
While it’s no handwritten letter, getting a short “thank you” e-mail can be a huge pick-me-up for someone in the middle of a long day. Thank a co-worker for his or her hard work preparing for the morning meeting, or send your digital appreciation to your roommate for listening to your dating woes. Knowing someone’s thinking of you makes a person feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Pay it forward
Random acts of kindness work in the digital world, too. Browse through Kickstarter campaigns, and donate a few dollars toward somebody’s dream of opening a gallery or creating a documentary. Visit GiveForward.com, a fundraising platform where people raise money for loved ones in need. Can’t contribute financially? Share a story on social media that speaks to your heart and offer words of encouragement.
Originally published on May 19, 2016.