Research on gratitude shows that it is associated with positive emotions including contentment, happiness, pride and hope. Although similar, gratitude can nevertheless be distinguished from happiness.
Gratitude enhances the experience of enjoying benefits, therefore, experiences of gratitude should result in taking pleasure from the benefits in life… and, according to Lewis’ reasoning, the experience and expression of gratitude should enhance subjective well-being and therefore, that people who are disposed to gratitude should also feel happier (Watkins et al., 2003). More about well-being soon!
Gratitude is consistently showed to be significantly associated with greater happiness (Simon, n.d.). Why? Well, for starters, gratitude increases experiences of positive emotions and it also helps people to take pleasure from positive experiences. Furthermore, gratitude is associated with better physical health which is a contributing factor to happiness (Simon, n.d.). Gratitude also helps people cope with adversity and to develop and maintain strong relationships.
Happiness is associated with being grateful (i.e. satisfied) with what one has, and focusing more on the positives in life. Furthermore, emotions are adaptable so sometimes we may become numb to what makes us happy… a dose of appreciation for our blessings can help us again feel happy.
Happiness not only makes life more pleasant, but can lead to better health, well-being, and longevity. To make the most of life and get started, give the smiling skills outlined below a try for one week. Consider it a one-week smiling experiment. If you commit to following these simple steps for smiling more, you will already be on the right track to living a happier, healthier life.
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