November is National Gratitude Month!
Healthy UC Davis, Aggie Mental Health Ambassadors and the Sheepmowers are celebrating by writing letters of gratitude to the people who we would like to thank for the good that they have brought into our lives. Writing letters of gratitude has been shown to be one of the most practical and effective ways of enhancing well-being in a short period of time.
Tips on writing an awesome letter of gratitude
Writing letters of gratitude enhance well-being by forcing us to slow down and to reflect on the goodness in our lives. In the process, we dwell on the positive and reduce the space for negative thoughts. As we describe the gift of goodness, it becomes more concrete. As we explain how it has affected us, we recognize our connection to others. It reminds us that we are not alone and we are valued by others.
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Has someone done something significant for you for which you felt gratitude toward them? Identify three people from whom you have benefitted materially, emotionally, or intangibly and you have never properly thanked.
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Describe in detail what the person did for you.
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Explain how your life has been affected (and perhaps continues to be) by what the person did.
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Tell the person how often you remember their efforts.
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Take about 10-15 minutes writing the letter (around 250 words).
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Imagine how reading the letter will make the person feel.
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If you can, hand deliver the letter to the person to whom you wrote the letter.
Gratitude at UC Davis
Did you know? One of the leading experts on the study of gratitude is Professor Robert Emmons at UC Davis.
This campaign is based on Dr. Emmon's research and books:
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Gratitude Works!
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The Little Book of Gratitude
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Thanks! How Practicing Gratitude Can Make You Happier