Gratitude: The Secret Behind
Creativity
By Nancy Marmolejo
When you think of being more creative, what comes to mind? Most
people think in terms of artistic skills, but creativity manifests
itself in a number of ways beyond the obvious. Picture creativity
like a jet stream that flows all around us: when we step up to
the flow and dip our hands in, we easily grab wonderful ideas,
refreshed insights and innovative actions. At times, things get
in our way and we lose our contact with the creative flow. We
consider ourselves in a rut, not creative, unproductive, dull.
There is a simple practice that magically ignites the creative
juices and brings joy to all parts of life. It takes practice,
commitment, and an open mind. It is gratitude. Giving thanks, appreciating others, acknowledging
the wonderful things we have in our lives.
Gratitude is extremely powerful and can’t be activated unless
consciously practiced every day of our lives. It can turn a sour
mood into a joyous one, make us laugh at our own silly shortcomings,
and open our hearts up to increased appreciation of all that surrounds
us. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure it out… it
just takes willingness.
Do the following ritual acts daily for at least 30 days. After
30 days, you’re free to discontinue and your misery will be gladly
refunded.
- Make a Gratitude list.
Start reciting the alphabet
and fill in a person, place or thing
for each letter. (If you're stuck for people's names that start
with the letter X, remember Xena the Warrior Princess and my friends
Gil and Lily's cool kid Xiarel. He won't mind if you're grateful
for him!) Making a Gratitude List is a wonderful way to shift
your focus when feeling down.
- Write thank you notes for everything. Have
a wonderful client? Send her a card. Do you appreciate the service at a
neighborhood store? Write a note saying so. Feeling
extra artistic? Make your own card and envelope. Be creative.
- Free e-cards are everywhere on the Internet. These
are easy ways to send a grateful thought to someone.
- When you go out to eat or patronize a store that
gives you exceptional service, ask for the manager. Tell her what a wonderful
time you had and how nice it was to visit.
- Whenever you write a check, jot the words "Thank You!" in
the memo line. Even though you're parting with your
dear cash, think of the goods or services you enjoyed in return. (Some
people believe
that this practice will attract wealth... you never know unless
you try!) When you endorse a check, be sure to write thank you
for the abundance.
- Thank the people in your life who would least expect
it. "Mom,
thank you for having me." She'll
probably come back at you with a shocked look, but think how dull the world
would be
without you!
- Thank a child for something. Children
learn from example. Teach your children about gratitude when they’re
young.
- Thank an elder. Our elders have such
a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer us. Take a moment to express
your gratitude
to a special older person in your life.
- Write a thank you letter to your Higher Power. Express
your gratitude for your life and all that is around you.
- Write a letter of thanks to yourself. What
are your special gifts and traits? What makes you uniquely you?
Challenge yourself to practicing these acts of gratitude everyday
for the next month. Use your creative gifts to add that unique
touch of yours to the way you express thanks.
Your creativity will rise to the occasion at unexpected times.
Welcome it and have fun! •
© 2005 Nancy Marmolejo
About the Author
Nancy Marmolejo is a life and business coach for creative women
and the owner of Comadre Coaching. To contact Nancy, email info@comadrecoaching.com or
call 714-777-1216. Sign up for Nancy’s award winning newsletter,
The Pocket Comadre, by visiting www.ComadreCoaching.com.
04/11/05
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