An exercise in gratitude starts by really taking stock of what is important to you. If you look around you will find so many things to be grateful for: your health, your loved ones, your dreams, meaningful relationships with friends, co-workers and the simple joys of everyday life. We need to remember to appreciate the little things that make life wonderful and try not to take them for granted. Today’s society places so much focus on obtaining more material wealth and climbing the social ladder that it’s easy to get out of the habit of appreciating what we have and being thankful for the love we share with others.

Always Give Thanks – When someone has taken the time to enrich your life with a gift of kind gesture, always show your thanks in a personal note or a phone call, or better yet, in person. Giving thanks doesn’t have to be just for the big stuff. It means the most when it’s least expected.

Return the Favor – You should strive to give more than you receive and always take stock of the favors your friends or family extend to you. While they are most likely giving without expecting anything in return, it is always nice to have someone make the effort to return the kindness.

Count Your Blessings - Shelter, food, family, love and laughter. You can probably add many more things to the list of what makes you feel blessed. It helps to write them down and keep them in your purse or pocket, or hang them in a place where you will see them and start your day feeling good about what you are so lucky to have.

Focus on the Present – When times get tough remember to cherish the simple comforts that are there for everyone: a delicious meal, sweet-smelling flowers, a cool breeze on a hot day, a relaxing bath after a hectic day at work, a great novel and cocoa in front of the fire, laughter with your loved ones, or an afternoon at the movies with a friend.

Rearrange Your Priorities – If you spend your entire life in search of material wealth or social status you may never truly cherish what you already have. Nothing will ever bring you more happiness than the love you share with your friends and family, using your talents to make the world a better place, and living by your own principles.