Transformation Tool #20
Turning Fear into Gratitude
Gratitude is a fantastic way to not only ease turbulent emotions like fear, but it can actually help you to better appreciate your life as it is right now (problems and all), as well as continuously keep attracting better experiences. There are endless ways to use gratitude, but here are a few that should be useful relating to fear:
Focus on something you appreciate.
When locked into a fearful state of mind, you automatically focus on the bad things that are either happening now or could happen in the near future. As we covered in an earlier section of this guide, those fearful thoughts have a way of snowballing out of control in no time at all.
You can reverse this process by instead focusing on something you can feel genuine appreciation for. This might be a cherished figurine your mother gave you, a favorite chair in your living room, or a love letter from your spouse. Spend a few minutes looking at this object, and feel grateful that you have it. Think about the reasons why you like it (or love it) so much, and let those happy feelings flow through you for several minutes.
If there are no objects you can appreciate nearby, try taking a slow walk outside and appreciate the trees, flowers, animals and people you see. Focus on something positive about them, and soon you will find other positive qualities coming to your attention.
Focus on someone you love.
You can also do this with people (or pets) that you care for. Simply call them to mind and think about how much you love them, how much you love spending time with them, and the many ways they add joy and happiness to your life. The person or animal does not have to be living either " you can look at old photos of your grandparents, your first pet, or childhood friends and relive happy memories you shared with them.
Focus on the positive side of your problems.
Gratitude can also be a powerful pathway to seeing your problems and challenges in a new light. Rather than focusing on the bad aspects and feeling fearful about them, shift your focus and try to find one or more positive aspects. For example, a frightening diagnosis may seem overwhelmingly bad " but you could affirm the fact that you are being given a new chance to take better care of your body; or that overcoming the illness will help you and your loved ones to become stronger and closer. Give thanks for the lessons and opportunities that are always hidden in every challenge. Here is a simple script to help you shift into an attitude of gratitude: Another Simple Way to Release Stress Now