As Christmas and the New Year approach, my thoughts naturally become more reflective, thinking about the past year and the one to come. Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about living a life and leaving a legacy of gratitude.
Feeling and expressing gratitude is such a simple yet powerful strategy for achieving greater success—personally, professionally, and organizationally! Just think about it. When you take the time to reflect on and acknowledge your many blessings and the positive things in your life, you can’t help but feel happier and more at peace. And those positive feelings can’t help but spill out and affect your words and actions, which in turn affect those around you, and ultimately can change your whole day… and even your life!
Recently I’ve had a number of people mention how much they appreciate the positive, uplifting quotes, articles, and other posts I share on social media. This got me to thinking more about social media and how I use it. I love sharing positive content. Whether it’s a thought-provoking question, an encouraging quote, or a touching video, I always strive to post stuff that is positive.
In my opinion, there is way too much cynicism and negativity in the world already. I myself am no Pollyanna with a sunny personality who tries to put a positive spin on everything—believe me, I grumble and complain as much as anyone! But I do not see any value in using my influence and social media accounts to spread complaints and negativity. Sure, it feels satisfying for a minute or two when people agree with a cynical comment or laugh along at some pointed meme, but ultimately, those angry sighs and smug smiles at someone else’s expense make nothing better.
So instead of furthering the spread of negativity, heated arguments, prejudiced opinions, and frivolous complaints, I choose to share gratitude. I choose to share encouragement. I choose to share love and kindness and the brighter, more positive side of humanity. It’s just one small part of my quest to live a life and leave a legacy of gratitude. Will you join me?
