Sometimes we forget that our actions and our words impact all of those around us. Offering even simple appreciation can transform relationships, boost our self-worth and shift a negative climate.
Gratitude is the practice of being thankful each day, but trying to decide when or how to show gratitude, especially in person, can be daunting. But gratitude is not just about recognition — it’s also about supporting and inspiring others. So one good way to start practicing gratitude is through social media. This is something quick and easy to put into practice –
The easiest way to get started with practicing gratitude on social media is by writing short gratitude posts tagging the people you feel most comfortable with or own their personal pages. It could be something as simple as – “Hey, you rock! I’m so glad to have you as a friend.” Or it could be more specific – “Remember that time when I didn’t understand that story from English and you worked with me step by step? Just wanted to say thanks!” Try to get in the habit of sending these messages more often. You could even remind yourself to do it by adding your plan to your calendar.
To further boost your social media gratitude, you can post a gratitude list. For example, simply list three simple things you are grateful for each day: I am grateful it’s sunny, grateful that I get to spend the evening with good friends, and grateful I’m having a good hair day. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or trendy. Then, share this post to your page with just your friends, or a selection of close friends, and ask them to share what they are grateful for too. By practicing gratitude together, you can make it more fun and also connect with friends and the joy can spread beyond the digital world.
Finally, you could go deeper with your gratitude practice and employ the use of DM’s (personal messages) with a full letter of gratitude. Your letter could be about anything. Maybe you want to thank a friend for always being there for you or a facilitator for going beyond expectations… In your letter, try to be specific and note why you value the other person, going beyond just the positive ways he or she makes you feel. Send this letter to the other person with an invitation to connect, in person or virtually. This way, the letter becomes a stimulus to help you continue to strengthen your relationship with the person.
Exposure to genuine heartfelt gratitude (which is to say skip the #blessed memes) can lead to a more appreciative, supportive, and equitable digital world. So challenge down, let’s see those gratitude posts weekly and let the joy start catching!
I grew up in San Bernardino, went to Parochial school from 1st through 8th grade, graduated from Pacific High School Class of 2001 where I excelled in wrestling and Football. I attended Cal State San Bernardino, (kinesiology major) class of 2006. I started teaching in 2006 and went back to Cal State San Bernardino in 2013 to obtain my Special Authorization in Adapted Physical Education. I earned “Junior High Teacher of the Year” at Casa Ramona Academy in 2009. I have taught in San Bernardino, Twenty Nine Palms, Santa Maria, and Anaheim. I have been teaching special education for 5 years. I have also served as a C.I.F official (referee) for 20 years and have coached wrestling for 5 years. I am currently engaged to Yoceline Lucero and have a 5-year-old daughter named Romina. I am so grateful to be working for iLEAD and feel it’s very important to stay in a constant state of gratitude!!! Thank you so much!!!
Mykisha Smith
Sensory Activity: 