How to *actually* Practice Gratitude

Gratitude is the key to unlocking a happier, more peaceful life. It’s a practice that shows up in every religion, self-help guide, and even manifestation techniques. Why? Because gratitude helps every area of your life grow and glow. From improving relationships to boosting mental health, it’s a proven way to feel better, even during tough times.

If you’re wondering how to practice gratitude or ways to practice gratitude when depressed, this blog is your go-to guide. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your gratitude practice, you’ll find tips that are easy to follow and incredibly effective. No matter how busy, lazy, or low you feel, practicing gratitude can make your life better—and I’ll show you how!

Why Practice Gratitude?

Gratitude is a pillar of self-improvement and the foundation of true happiness. It’s more than just saying “thank you” — it’s a mindset that shifts your focus from what’s missing in your life to what you already have.

When you make gratitude a habit, you’re not just improving your mood—you’re improving your life. Studies show that gratitude boosts mental health, strengthens relationships, and even rewires your brain to feel more joy. So why not start today?

8 Simple Ways to Practice Gratitude

1. Change Your Perspective

I used to be negative in conversations, always taking things for granted. Whether it was paying bills or complaining about the food on my plate, I was ungrateful. But everything shifted when I changed my perspective. Instead of focusing on what I didn’t have, I began to focus on what I was grateful for. For instance, while paying my bills, I started being thankful for the ability to pay them, rather than complaining about money being “never enough.” Shifting your mindset can completely transform the way you experience daily life. Learn How I Removed Negative Thoughts From Mind PERMANENTLY.

2. Thank God

The more I became grateful to Allah, the more blessings I noticed in my life. As the Quran says, “If you are grateful, I will surely increase your favor upon you” (Quran 14:7). This verse became a guiding light for me, reminding me of the power in gratitude. I made it a habit to say “Shukar Alhamdulillah” throughout my day, and it changed everything. If you’re a Muslim, I encourage you to repeat these words 100 times a day. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your heart and life start to transform.

3. Start a Gratitude Journal

You’ve probably heard it before, but it works every time—write down three things you’re grateful for each day. It could be anything, big or small—your health, your relationships, a beautiful sunset, or even just the fact that you’re alive. I started this simple habit, and it helped me focus on the good, even on tough days. Consistency is key, and over time, you’ll notice how much more positive and appreciative you feel. Learn how to Build Your Ideal Journaling Routine Today!

4. Compare with Others’ Struggles

We often compare our achievements to others, but rarely their struggles. When I found myself resenting the things I didn’t have, I made a conscious effort to look at others who are facing much harder battles. I realized that many people in hospitals or jails would trade places with me in a heartbeat. This shift in perspective made me incredibly grateful for the life I have, reminding me to appreciate even the smallest blessings. Learn How To Stop Caring What Others Think Of You.

5. Positive Bedtime Routine

One of the first things I did to practice gratitude was silently listing three things I was thankful for before falling asleep. At first, it was hard to find even three things to be grateful for, but as I made it a nightly habit, I quickly found the list expanding to five, then ten. The more I practiced, the easier it became, and it started to fill my mind with positive thoughts as I drifted off to sleep. This simple practice helped me wake up the next day with a grateful mindset, ready to face the day with appreciation and positivity. Learn 10 Toxic Habits Keeping You Depressed.

6. Appreciate Nature

Spending time outside and connecting with nature is an incredible way to practice gratitude. Take time to notice the beauty around you—the sunsets, the trees, the vibrant colors of the sky, and the calming sounds of nature. I made it a point to step outside once a week to simply appreciate the abundance in nature. It doesn’t need to be a daily habit; just taking the time to notice nature’s gifts can make a huge difference in your mindset and help you feel more connected to the world around you.

7. Gratitude Before Praying

Before I make a dua, I always take a moment to thank Allah for the blessings I already have. I start by expressing gratitude for being able to practice gratitude itself. This simple act shifts my mindset and raises my vibration before asking for anything. It helps me approach my desires from a place of abundance and acceptance rather than desperation. When you’re already in a state of gratitude, your prayers become more powerful and aligned with a positive, trusting energy.

8. Hardship Is a Blessing

When facing challenges, it’s hard to see them as blessings. But when I look back at the difficult times in my life, I can clearly see how they shaped me into the person I am today. Those tough moments, though painful, were necessary for my growth. Just like a seed needs the darkness and struggle of being underground to grow, we, too, need hardship to develop. Although today’s struggles might seem overwhelming, trust that they’re molding you into a stronger version of yourself. For example, a painful breakup in my life pushed me to start my self-development journey, and without that heartbreak, I wouldn’t be writing this blog today. Keep faith that your current struggles are making you stronger for the future. Learn 21 Ways to *finally* Be Happier.

21-Day Unbothered Challenge:

Key Takeaways:

• Gratitude is a powerful tool that helps shift your mindset from negativity to positivity, making you more appreciative of the things you already have in your life.
• Changing your perspective can make a huge difference. Start by appreciating small things like paying bills or enjoying a meal, and you’ll notice your gratitude grow.
• Saying “Shukar Alhamdulillah” can have a powerful impact on your life. Repeating it daily increases feelings of gratitude and opens doors to more blessings.
• Keeping a gratitude journal is a simple but effective way to stay focused on the positive. Write down three things you’re thankful for every day and watch your mindset shift.
• Comparing your struggles to others can help you realize how much you truly have. Many people would trade places with you, so be thankful for your life.
• Practicing gratitude before bed can improve your mood and help you wake up with a grateful heart. Start by listing three things you’re thankful for before sleeping.
• Spending time in nature can fill your heart with appreciation. Taking weekly walks outside to enjoy the beauty around you can be a powerful gratitude practice.
• Before making dua, take a moment to thank Allah for the blessings you already have. This makes your prayers more powerful and rooted in positivity.
• Hardships are often blessings in disguise. Looking back at tough times can help you realize how they shaped you into a stronger person.
• Life’s challenges are there to help you grow. Just like a seed needs darkness to grow, difficult moments help you develop into a stronger and wiser person.

If you want more tips on love, manifestation, self-development, and emotional intelligence, make sure to follow my blog for regular insights that can help you live a more empowered and fulfilling life!

If you made it till the end don’t go without dropping a ❤ to this post.