4 things we learnt about gratitude during Covid-19

At the start of the pandemic, many of us experienced a higher tendency to overlook gratitude. Wrapped up in our own challenges, how could we find the bandwidth to feel grateful? As we adjusted to the situation, we found, however, huge value in gratitude and developed insights about practicing it.

1. We are surrounded by things to be grateful for

Each of us has our own unique set of circumstances and within these circumstances, things to be grateful for. For us, such blessings include a stable family life, the opportunity to continue working and schooling from home, a comfortable house in which we can ride out lockdown measures and the availability of necessities within several kilometres of our homes. Count your blessings because others may not have what you take for granted. 

That being said…

2. There is no need to use “gratitude” to minimise your own suffering

“Stop moping, you are already much luckier than many people - the man down the street doesn’t even have a house. You should be grateful for what you have.” 

We have all heard variations of this spoken around us or to us. Such sentiments may trigger guilt about feeling depressed over our difficulties. It is important to be grateful for what we have but there is no need to dismiss or minimise our suffering in such a manner. Just as we have different things to be grateful for, we experience different suffering.  It is not necessary to measure or compare suffering. Each person’s suffering is valid and real. Instead of minimising your suffering, acknowledge it and sit with the painful feeling. Reflect on your emotions. By doing so, we can effectively soothe or lessen our suffering instead of just brushing it aside for another day.

3. Practicing gratitude lightens feelings of depression

Gratitude makes us notice and acknowledge the good around us. For example, thanking the delivery man draws our attention to how blessed we are to be in a position where we can buy necessities, clothes, food and more from the safety of our house. Our situation seems less dismal and we feel more positive.

4. Small, consistent actions go a long way

Gratitude can be a joyful part of our lifestyle. While big acts like sending someone a personalised gift and letter are often much appreciated and well-received, they can be supplemented with many relatively smaller gestures. Think of things you can do even when you are busy. Make it a habit to say “thank you” when something is done for you and express your gratitude to your loved ones by consistently treating them well. Some ways to do this are to help out around the house, share nice snacks with your family and offer a listening ear when others are feeling down.

Gratitude is a valuable attitude and practice when dealing with negative emotions. Let us take this time to make important, long-lasting changes to the way we exercise it.