Welcome back to the Autumn Creek Apartments Blog and to November in New York! This month, our thoughts turn to Thanksgiving, and today our post is all about gratitude. We have a quick quiz to start with (no worries — it’s not graded) and then some ideas about how to put gratitude in action.
Thanksgiving Quiz*
1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America.
4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winner for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.
The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.
Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:
1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.
Easier?
The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care. Take some time this month (and throughout the year) to show your gratitude to these special people in your life.
Showing Gratitude
Research has shown that people who make a habit of expressing gratitude on a regular basis are happier and healthier than those who do not. This Harvard Medical School Health Publications article, “In Praise of Gratitude,” explores some of the reasoning behind the findings. Here are some ideas about how to show gratitude you may want to adopt:
Thank Someone
It only takes a few minutes out of your day, but sending a text, a chat message, or an email to someone who has made a difference in your life will give them a boost and leave you with a feeling of satisfaction. Go a step further and send flowers to someone you haven’t seen for awhile. You’ll be glad you did.
Pay It Forward
Paying it forward is a great way to share the bounty you’ve received in your life, though it doesn’t necessarily take material goods to do so. In fact, many of the ideas on this list, 60 Selfless Ways to Pay It Forward, simply require some time and thoughtfulness.
Make a List
Make a list of experiences and things that you’re grateful for at this time. The next time you’re feeling down, stressed, or frustrated, get out the list and read it for an instant pick-me-up.
We hope everyone at our apartment community here in East Amherst, NY takes some time this month to express gratitude. We are surely grateful that YOU are a part of our community. Next time, we’ll have some tips for preparing Thanksgiving dinner.
*This quiz has been incorrectly attributed to Charles Schulz, creator of Charlie Brown. However, the author is unknown, but it’s thought-provoking nevertheless.