The Glad Game

The very name “Pollyanna” has come to mean someone who is
eternally upbeat and optimistic, who spreads positivity and
good will wherever she goes. Before you decide that such
unremittingly cheerful behavior is truly nauseating and deserves
a good smack, think of this: people who take time every day to
count their blessings are truly happier (and live longer) than
those who don’t.

So spread a little good cheer in the New Year with this great game that helps you to focus on the glad, not the bad. Your heart–and everyone who knows you–will be grateful. It only takes a minute.

You can play this game when you’re driving in your car, or taking a walk, or sitting at your computer–pretty much under any circumstances.

Start small: just think of ONE THING that you’re glad for. Maybe it’s the taste of the special coffee that Aunt Ruth from Winnetka sent you for Christmas. Maybe it’s the fact that the holidays are over. Perhaps you have a new love in your life, or an interesting new project to work on. Or you could be glad for your family, or your dog or cat. Really think about whatever it is for a moment. Allow yourself to smile over it. Feel your heart open and glow with gratitude for whatever it is.

That’s it. But tomorrow, try thinking of two things you’re really, truly glad for. Expand the field of your gratitude every day. Really take time to appreciate the many many blessings you enjoy. You’re alive: you have the capacity to be a beneficial and positive presence on the planet. You are needed–or you wouldn’t be here. Enjoy this life that you have been given! And be glad.

Read more: Spirit, Inspiration, Self-Help

Inspired by the classic, Pollyanna, by Eleanor H. Porter.

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Michele W.

6:00AM PDT on Oct 14, 2011

Thank you

send a green star

Joe k.

12:03PM PDT on Oct 2, 2011

great artical

Tim C.

12:35PM PDT on Aug 29, 2011

thanks

Karin M.

3:28PM PDT on Jul 26, 2011

thank you. :-)

Franco D.

4:48PM PDT on Apr 30, 2011

Such a wonderful idea.

Melissah C.

7:31AM PDT on Mar 18, 2011

KS G.

5:43AM PST on Dec 23, 2010

Thanks for the article.

Cheryl B.

5:10AM PDT on Jul 24, 2010

I'm glad I found this article!

Elena D.

3:32PM PDT on May 24, 2010

Thank you!

Janice P.

10:43AM PDT on May 14, 2010

I have been doing a version of this since 1996 or so. It all started with the book "Simple Abundance". Ban Breathnach proposed, as one of her exercises in that book, to list 5 things for which you are grateful at the end of every day, just before you go to bed. This exercise keeps you more aware of the good in your life, rather than concentrating on the bad. You can't imagine how much it helps ones outlook.