The word appreciate has several meanings. One is to be thankful
or show gratitude. Another is to raise or increase in
valuesuch as how a good investment appreciates with time. I
think that by appreciatingpracticing gratefulnessthe things
we have and want in our lives also increase.
In our hectic, fast-paced lives, it’s easy to forget about the
many things for which we have to be grateful. We tend to be
goal-seeking, achievement-oriented people.
And there’s nothing wrong with that.
However, it’s vitally important that we not lose sight of the
things that are near and dearthings we all too easily take for
granted.
What we focus on expands. If we focus on the problems in our
lives, they tend to increase. If we focus on the good things we
already have, they too, have a tendency to grow.
I see it as another form of prayer. When we worry and fret over
things, we make them bigger than they really are, as well as
attract more of the same. That’s negative prayerprayer in
reverse.
Focusing on what we HAVE and what we WANT "appreciates" these
thingsthey grow.
Just before going to sleep each night, my wife and I share at
least three things for which we're thankful. We call it doing
our "Gratefuls". It takes only a few moments, but it directs our
thoughts on the goodon the things we wish to increase in our
life.
I suggest making the conscious consideration of your blessings a
daily rather than yearly occurrence. If you do, you’ll find them
taking on an even greater presence.
About the Author
Michael Angier is the founder and president of Success Networks
International, publishers of SUCCESS STRATEGIES and SUCCESS
DIGEST. Success Net is an association committed to helping
people to be more knowledgeable, productive and effective. Their
mission is to inform, inspire and empower people to be their
bestpersonally and professionally. Free subscriptions,
memberships, books and SuccessMark Cards are available at
http://www.successnet.org/