Cicero once said, "A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all other virtues." As World Gratitude Day approaches on Sept. 21, take a moment to reflect on the meaning behind those words. Cicero is suggesting that gratitude is a catalyst for other positive virtues. How does that translate into financial success?
Simply looking at the numbers won't reveal the secret to this. Many people get caught up in negativity during their quest to become debt-free, forgetting to be grateful for the good things in life and focusing instead on their financial circumstances. This "glass half-empty" philosophy may lead people to miss out on small victories. Those are successes, but many might not see them as such.
The "glass half-full" mentality is generally better for achieving financial success. There's a silver lining in every cloud. People who do that are more motivated. They are not weighed down by depression and negativity, which may be helpful financially.
Be grateful
There's a reason that the words "Thou Shalt Not Covet" have been embedded in religious doctrine for millennia. The concept of being envious of others is a negative mindset that can be detrimental. Financial success should be a joyful occurrence.
Being grateful instills a sense of accomplishment that can fuel motivation to strive for more, not to keep up with the Jones, but because it was earned. Comparing it to others will just dampen that flame. Without gratitude, no amount of money, acres of property, or yachts to waterski behind will generate happiness.
Physiologically, a covetous attitude can cause serious depression, anger, and fear for the future. Gratitude, on the other hand, brings peace of mind and replenishes the energy needed to move forward in life. That person who shows up early for work every day with a sunny disposition? Chances are they're financially successful by their standards.
Gratitude changes spending habits
Trying to acquire things that others have is exhausting and expensive. It's also never going to be enough. Being grateful releases people from that burden. Cicero said that gratitude is the parent of all other virtues. Frugality and commonsense are two of those virtues he's talking about.
Another virtue is generosity. Grateful people who are satisfied with what they have tend to be more generous, either with their time or money. And both can help make the world a better place.
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Original Source: World Gratitude Day: Learn How Gratitude Can Work Towards Financial Success With Credello
