What? Gratitude can increase resilience? Absolutely! Scott Mautz, author of The Mentally Strong Leader states “And it’s the combination of gratitude and mindfulness that makes it so powerful. Sometimes, we struggle to express gratitude, especially as adversity wears on. We might be too restrictive of what deserves our gratitude, or our sense of gratefulness gets overpowered by all the irritations and disappointments we encounter. Likewise, mindfulness (calmly focusing your awareness in the present moment) isn’t enough on its own either; you have to act on your observations or actively shift your perception in some way that improves your outlook.”
Gratitude fosters Fortitude. Fortitude is defined by Merriam-Webster as “strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage”. As we focus upon the smallest of items to be grateful for we become mindful in the present moment. This is the creation of the word “grindfullness” noted by Scott Mautz. Mautz states “you have a crystal-clear cue for when to call on your grindfulness habit—anytime you start feeling worn down. If you miss an opportunity to express it, getting caught in a downturn instead, commit to find just one small detail in your daily grind to be thankful for. Then build on it, looking for other things to appreciate as your plow forward, until you’ve reignited this hat-tip habit.”
Build a habit of focusing upon items to be grateful. Remember gratitude fosters fortitude. In so doing you will focus on the present condition and what was a grind will become an expression of gratitude thus increasing your fortitude to overcome any challenge. Trust in your greatness and build up your fortitude through gratitude and receive an increase of courage to overcome all challenges!
