Your Magenta Monday Magic.
Last month, I attended a Galentine’s Day breakfast hosted by a girlfriend. I took the opportunity to ask the group their thoughts on gratitude.
A new friend shared a story about her boyfriend making wings for the Super Bowl. She identified herself as a ‘chronic nitpicker’, always looking for imperfections. A habit she wanted to change.
As she walked into the kitchen she instantly thought ‘Oh my God. This kitchen is a mess! Look at all the dirty dishes in the sink. This is going to take forever for me to clean up.’
But that was followed by another thought, ‘You know what? Rather than being irritated at this mess, I should be grateful for the fact that I have someone who loves me, and who loves to cook for me.’
So instead of ragging on him, she thanked him for making the wings and acknowledged him for his efforts.
This shift to the positive felt so much better for her… which also led to his positive response in kind.
In a follow-up text exchange, I told her how much I loved that story. She explained that because she is a ‘chronic nitpicker,’ practicing gratitude takes a real effort.
Maybe you can relate?
But here’s the beautiful thing! Nitpicking takes the same amount of effort as identifying the good does.
So, I suggested that she shift that habit to become a chronic ‘gratitude noticer’.
How many times have you focused on the negative, especially when it comes to your spouse, your partner, or your kids? I’ve had times where I feel like I ride my kids constantly, only pointing out the things they're doing wrong rather than noticing all the things they’re doing right.
It can become a habit.
But bad habits are meant to be broken. And when you are pursuing a life of joy and ease, changing this habit is a faster path to happiness.
So, the next time you feel yourself starting to get irritated that your husband didn’t put the trash bag into the kitchen garbage can after he emptied it, take a deep breath and instead say ‘thanks for taking out the trash.’
Ok, and then maybe kindly suggest that he put a new bag in next time. I know I will. 😉
Monday Mindshift
It’s the 1° shift that makes the biggest difference over time.
“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have you will never, ever have enough.”
—Oprah Winfrey
Last week I shared 3 simple options for a daily gratitude practice to do this whole month, that can have a HUGE impact on your life.
This week I wanted to check-in. How is your practice going? What are you noticing?
In case you missed last Monday’s email, pick one of the following and commit to doing it every day for 30 days. I promise you, it’s worth it!
Gratitude Journal: Each night, list 3 good things that happened that day in a notebook or journal. Read it often.
Gratitude Jar: Decorate a jar or shoe box and fill it with notes of gratitude each day. Take time often to read the notes, especially after a challenging day.
Gratitude Board: Hang up a poster board and add things you are grateful for each day. Express your gratitude any way you want - cut out images from magazines, print pictures off the internet, use Post-its or markers to write or draw… whatever brings you inspiration.
Love,
PS. I’d love to hear what activities you did to connect to your intentions! I invite you to share your thoughts and ideas with us in Thriving Mom’s Collective FB Group!
Living BRIGHTer is...
B - Be Brave
R - Cultivate Relationships
I - Live with Intention
G - Practice Gratitude
H - Prioritize Health
T - Live your Truth
What is Magenta?
The color magenta is one of universal harmony and emotional balance. It is spiritual yet practical, encouraging common sense and a balanced outlook on life. Magenta helps to create harmony and balance in every aspect of life; physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
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