Monday, May 31, 2010

Gratitude Experiment

I'm determined to do something different.

Have you ever noticed that you tend to speak up, comment, call in, speak to a manager when something is wrong but not when something is right?

This month I am going to focus on the good that I see around me. I am going to notice the little ways that people show me kindness. I am going to appreciate the checker with a good attitude. I am going to be thankful for good service. I am going to thank God for the people that are around me.

I am not going to be thankful silently.

I am going to be vocal about kindness. I am going to compliment a complete stranger. I am going to fill out customer service forms and report wonderful service. I am going to email places of business about how well they are doing. I am going to call places and ask to speak to a manager just to tell them I appreciate what their employees are doing.

I was inspired to do this gratitude experiment a few days ago. In the last few days, I have thought about it (read that as, gathered a business card with the intention to email, noticed a clerk's name, etc) and realized that this is not something that will be easy to do. I am going to have to be intentionally grateful. I am going to have to do more than just thank God for those around me. I'm going to have to act. And... it is going to take effort.

9 comments:

He & Me + 3 said...

That is a great idea. I want to do that more too. It is always nice to hear the good over the bad.
I will be waiting to hear how it goes.

AJ said...

It's funny...when I compliment strangers for whatever reason, they look at me like I'm crazy! :) But I like doing it...and who doesn't like to be recognized for a job well done. I like it JJ!

Foursons said...

Good for you! Please update us on how it is going and how you change through the process.

Jeanne said...

Interesting how much effort it takes for us to be kind these days, but very little effort to fly off the handle. Thank you for the reminder! Great post!

Beth E. said...

Intentionally grateful...I like that! Thanks for a great idea!

Salty Mom said...

This is a great idea. I have to tell you when a stranger compliments me it really makes my day (:

Jen said...

Kind words DO make your day so much better! Tell us all how it turns out :)

Macey said...

This is a great idea! I know it makes my year when someone says something nice to me...it's so hard for me to step outside of my comfort zone and compliment a stranger. I should do this too!

Everyday Kathy said...

Love this!! It is Gratitude Week over at my Everyday Bliss Blog... your project is perfect! I'll be back to see how things go for you!