Paying Attention To The Positive
GRATITUDE WORKOUT
-
This MINDFULGym tool involves training our mind to pay attention to the positive aspects of life, e.g. strength, blessings, good deeds, accomplishments, success.
-
Instead of allowing our mind to generate thoughts randomly, we can purposefully cultivate positive thoughts. Research in positive psychology has shown that this helps in rewiring the neurons in the brain to stay positive, healthy, and happy.
-
We tend to remember negative memories more easily; they’re like Velcro strap – very sticky. Happy memories require more effort in recalling them; they’re like Teflon pan – non-stick. For this reason, we should schedule time for daily Gratitude Workout.
A. Google-WWW-Yahoo
Try to ‘Google’ (mentally search or recall) 3W’s (what went well) every day and ‘Yahoo’ (rejoice or celebrate) the good things in life. In other words, deliberately try to pay attention to the positive things in life, e.g. strength, blessings, good deeds, accomplishments, success. See below for examples.
Examples:
Yahoo
The patient's family members thanked me and gave me a gift
Yahoo
The ward Sister complimented me for a job well done
Yahoo
My husband is supportive of my career and he helps to take care of the children
Yahoo
I've completed my post basic training in hemodialysis nursing program
B. Gratitude Card Game
Randomly pick a card (below) by clicking or tapping on it. Try to recall something that has happened today, recently, or a long time ago that matches the description on the card. Rejoice on the happy memories...
Examples:
Yahoo
My colleague was willing to cover me for my night shift duty when I was on emergency leave
Yahoo
I've learned how to communicate with patients and their family more effectively
Yahoo
I'm grateful that I'm good at public speaking. I can help to be the master of ceremony during the nursing seminar
Yahoo
My doctor praised me for being proactive, hardworking, and compassionate
Feeling grateful and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it