The Gratitude Board

Late on Friday night Allie was upstairs with our two month old when she texted me. By late I mean 9:05 pm and yes she texted me while we were both in the house.  When our 3 year old is asleep and the two month old is nursing you do not yell, you do not even call each other, but you can text!

Her text said “Why don’t you make one of the whiteboards at the gym a Gratitude board for the week. Do you think people will write stuff?” Absolutely love this idea.

Every morning I get up and write. I always start with coffee, pen, paper and what I appreciate.  It is simple, but it always makes for a better day.  Things just seem more clear and less foggy.  I got it from someone who is way smarter than me.  It took sometime to implement, but now I notice a difference in my overall productivity and mood when I do or do not practice this.

The benefits of Gratitude have been studied and proven to be effective in many different ways. One small act of appreciation can put many things in life into perspective. They effect people physically and mentally.

As I write this the “Gratitude Board” at the gym is empty.  I am not concerned with it getting filled up.  I know our community will step up and get behind it.  What I am concerned about is taking steps forward.  Always working to create happier people who welcome in outsiders, but are close like family.  It is a balance that can be hard.  But, I hope this small exercise pushes us closer to that unattainable end goal of excellence.

-Geo