Every day when I wake up, I take a few moments to think about all I am grateful for in my life. My loving family and friends, my health, enjoying the simple things in life as they happen and having another day to help others.
There is no better way to start the day – mentally, emotionally and physically. When we become amazed by all the goodness and wonder around us, we open ourselves to greater happiness and fulfilment.
Having the privilege of getting to know Fleurenville's residents over the last year, I've discovered that gratitude can grow more vigorous and more powerful as we grow older. The people who made Fleurenville their home doesn't have time to sit around feeding negative thoughts. They are too busy working together to find ways to inspire others and express their appreciation in creative and heartfelt ways.
Their thankfulness not only motivates me – it makes serving as their CEO easier. That's because, although it may not be their intention, their grateful mindset is a big part of why they're ageing gracefully. More and more scientific studies are finding that an 'attitude with gratitude' helps us make better lifestyle choices. Here's how:
Gratitude improves our physical health. When we appreciate our health, we are more likely to be brilliant caretakers of it. We exercise more often, eat healthier and are more likely to have regular check-ups. It's no wonder grateful people experience fewer aches and pains.
Gratitude encourages relationships. Showing appreciation to people we meet makes them more likely to want to get to know us better. And letting people we already have a connection with know how much they mean to us brings us closer together.
Gratitude helps us move forward. Recognizing and focusing on what we have to be thankful for – even during difficult times – promotes resilience, making us more confident about setting new goals and trying new things.
The gratitude in our hearts is a powerful force in our lives. Let's all "Go Grateful" for greater well-being.
Jan Heystek
CEO
Fleurenville Aged Care
