A Healthy Dose of Gratitude
As a poet, I have developed a habit of thinking in rhyme, so when I think of the word gratitude, the word attitude quickly comes to mind! We’ve all heard the phrase: “we should practice having an attitude of gratitude!” Practicing an attitude of gratitude makes us conscious of how we view situations AND how we respond to them.
Developing an attitude of gratitude can change everything! It can effectively change and improve our physical health and our mental well-being. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can decrease pain, improve sleep patterns, reduce stress, and increase our energy levels.
It changes how we interact with family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. But most importantly, an attitude of gratitude can help to improve our outlook on life, boost our self-esteem and fill us with an abundance of joy! Gratitude and joy are interconnected.
Gratitude helps us reframe our thoughts, focusing on what we have rather than what we don’t, and studies have shown that having a grateful heart helps us maintain a healthy heart!
Check out this article written by The American Heart Association on the benefits that thankfulness and gratitude have on our health and wellbeing.
As a 35-year heart disease and diabetes survivor, I begin each day by giving honor and glory to God for ALL that He’s done and by thanking Him in advance for ALL that He WILL do in my life!
I believe in speaking, declaring, claiming, and expecting to experience amazing outcomes because God has already done MORE than I could think or imagine. What God has already done assures me that He’s not finished with me yet. I’m grateful for His promise.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
He provided not just one but two mechanical devices that continue to extend my life. God’s given me a testimony that I just can’t keep to myself!!
After spending 20 of those 35 years searching for an accurate heart diagnosis, I discovered true purpose in my journey, and I continue the mission of advocating for others who are seeking answers and searching for hope.
When we are able to express thankfulness and gratitude for the little things, as well as the big things, we tend to take less for granted.
An attitude of gratitude in the workplace leads to better decision-making, enhances people skills, and improves productivity, which are definite benefits when serving in leadership roles.
Building a work environment that focuses on the practice of gratitude, encourages mutual respect and effective communication, and sets the foundation for achieving success!!
Debora Grandison is a 35-year heart disease and diabetes survivor, also living with Graves Disease, a pacemaker, an insulin pump and a purpose!
Her advocacy journey began in 2011, where she served in a number of national volunteer advocacy roles over the years. She joined the University of Pennsylvania in 2023, as a Co- Investigator, Patient Advocate & Consultant for AMETHIST @ Penn. (Achieving Maternal Equity and Transforming Health through Implementation Science and Training)
Debora shares her journey to educate and advocate on local, national and global platforms.
Her journey has increased her faith and given her the strength to “Rise Above” adversity! She believes that she is STILL here with the purpose of helping others understand that they too can “Rise Above” challenges…no matter what they might be!
Debora is the Founder of “SHE SPEAKS FROM A JOYFUL HEART” this platform combines inspirational messages, creative poetry, and prayer to encourage, inspire and empower her audience. Debora believes that what we say about ourselves has a direct impact on our physical and our mental health. Our words have power!
Her book, His Poetry, Her Story: A Collection of Poetry and Prayers, can be found on Amazon, or on her website: fromajoyfulheart.com