Gratitude: My Daily Non-Negotiable for Staying Sane and Focused
Nov 18, 2024Running a business, especially with ADHD, can often feel like trying to herd cats. That's why I've made gratitude my daily non-negotiable. It’s not about being sappy; it’s a strategy that keeps me grounded and clear-headed.
Why Gratitude is More Than Just a Nice Thought
Every single day, come rain or shine or the apocalypse, I carve out five intentional minutes from the whirlwind to reflect on what’s actually going great. This isn’t your average “dear diary, today I’m thankful for coffee” kind of deal. It’s a deep, strategic dive into what’s fueling my fire and why.
Going Beyond the Usual Gratitude List
The practice of gratitude is widely recommended, but I've adapted it to meet the unique challenges posed by ADHD. Rather than simply listing the things I'm grateful for, I engage in a deeper reflection by adding "because..." to each point. This method encourages a deeper emotional connection to each item, reinforcing my feelings of gratitude and enhancing their impact on my mindset.
For example, instead of merely noting, "I’m grateful for my coaching clients," I take it a step further by recognizing, "I’m grateful for my coaching clients because their willingness to grow and embrace change inspires me daily, fueling our mutual successes." This depth of appreciation does more than lift my spirits; it strengthens my connections with clients and continually reaffirms my passion for coaching.
The Tangible Benefits of This Practice
- Enhanced Emotional Regulation: By maintaining a frequency of gratitude, I can better manage the emotional variability that often accompanies ADHD.
- Improved Decision-Making: Gratitude clears the mental clutter, allowing me to make decisions from a place of clarity and calm.
- Strengthened Relationships: This practice helps me connect more deeply with those around me, enhancing both personal and professional relationships.
How to Implement Your Own Gratitude Routine
Interested in starting this transformative practice? Here’s how to get started:
- Choose a Consistent Time: Protect these five minutes daily as if your success depends on it—because in many ways, it does.
- Deepen Your Insights: Challenge yourself to find the specific reasons behind your gratitude. The more specific you are, the more profound the impact.
- Observe the Impact: Watch how this small daily habit influences your mood, your interactions, and your business’s trajectory.
Let’s Share Our Gratitude
I’m all about community and mutual growth. So, in the comments, finish this sentence: 'I am grateful for __ because...'
If this resonates with you and you’re looking for more actionable strategies to manage your business with ADHD, make sure to follow me on Instagram and check out my courses here! And if you think someone else might benefit from this reminder to harness the power of gratitude, go ahead and share this post with them.