1. Are you reading this article?
If so, you have a valuable tool at your disposal. The power of the Internet is limitless. You can learn about anything you desire, connect with old friends, explore job opportunities, search for support communities, and network with people all around the world.
2. Can you go outside without fear of death?
Car bombs and mass shootings are a regular event in some countries, so be happy you have it so easy.
3. Did you eat something today?
One out of eight people in the world are suffering from hunger, so be thankful that you’re not one of them.
4. So you’re stressed out about what to do with life?
Good. That means you’re ambitious and won’t settle for whatever life hands you. Channel your nervous energy into positive action, because consistent hustle always wins.
5. Do you hate your job?
At least you have one unlike the 11,500,000 people who are currently unemployed in the United States. If you have dreams of self-employment (and enough savings to support yourself), I’m sure an unemployed person would be happy to trade places with you so that you can pursue your passion.
6. Is there a roof over your head?
I don’t know about you, but I’m glad I’m not at risk of shivering in the cold when winter comes.
7. Did you fail at something recently?
Failure is the most effective teacher you’ll ever meet, so be happy you learned a lesson. Stop looking at failure as a bad thing and see it as a learning opportunity. Improve yourself in some way every time you fail and eventually, you will become so developed that the only option left is success.
8. Are you mad because your pet ate, destroyed, or pooped on something?
Before you answer that question, think about how happy your pet has made you over the years and ask yourself, “Would I trade that feeling for the world?” Didn’t think so. Yelling at it won’t make you feel any better, nor will your pet understand what all the ruckus is about, so just shrug it off. Live alone and feeling lonely? Adopt a pet and you’ll likely end up with the most loving and loyal companion you’ll ever meet.
9. Could you stand up right now if you wanted to?
Movement should be an expression of joy and thankfulness. You have working limbs and a body that can carry you wherever you want to go in this beautiful world. The next time you catch yourself putting off exercise, think about all the people in the world who are confined to wheelchairs. Some people don’t move because they can’t, so move because you can.
10. Are you feeling a little better about life now?
If this article made you thankful for things you’ve been taking for granted, I challenge you to make a list of every specific thing in your life that you’re happy about today. I would bet my bank account that you’ll discover you’re doing better than you think. What are you thankful for right this second? Tell us in the comments and you just might make somebody’s day.
