A View From Above on Things That Make The World Go 'Round
James Donaldson on Mental Health – Benefits of Practicing Gratitude
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Did you know that people who regularly show and feel gratitude tend to be more optimistic and satisfied in life, have higher self-esteem and sleep better? They also tend to have stronger relationships and communities. And they may even have improved physical health. Why? Because people who show more gratitude are more likely to have fewer trips to the doctor and exercise more often.
What does gratitude mean?
By actively focusing on the positive things in your life, you can reduce negative thoughts and feelings. When you show and feel gratitude, it helps you think of the goodness in your life, and the sources of this goodness. This can help you keep perspective and bounce back more quickly after stressful and difficult times.
Gratitude also can bring “pay it forward” benefits to others. It helps you — and those you share your gratitude with — get a boost of positive reinforcement, so they may feel more inspired to express thanks as well.
#James Donaldson notes: Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes. Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use. Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.#http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle Find out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundation website www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson’s latest book, #CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy
Ideas to help you get started with practicing gratitude
There are easy ways to practice gratitude and to make it a regular part of life. Here are some get-started ideas:
Keep a journal. Writing down what you’re thankful for causes you to really think about the positive parts of your life. This can help keep stress and challenges in perspective. It also gives you a record of positive memories to revisit and enjoy.
Send a thank-you letter. Take the time to write to someone, telling them how much you appreciate them. Recognizing people who make a difference in your life can give you a “happiness boost” and give them a boost, too.
Focus on the positive. When good things happen, take time to think about and savor them. Give yourself the time to enjoy positive emotions and experiences, and permission to celebrate your own success.
Make a mental note. Each day think about the good things in your life and take a mental picture. This can help you reinforce the positive memories.
Share the joy. Make sharing what you’re grateful for a regular part of your routine. For example, take time during family dinners or outings with friends to share three things you’re thankful for.
James Donaldson is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the NBA with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz. He also played for several teams in the European Leagues in Spain, Italy, and Greece, and he toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an NBA All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac-10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2010, James was elected as a board member for the NBA Retired Players Association.
James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, and youth groups.
In 2010, James was the recipient of the NBA Legends of Basketball ABC Award, awarded for outstanding contributions in Athletics–Business–Community.
He believes in being a role model for success and professionalism to the scores of young people to whom he devotes so much of his time. He currently serves on several boards and committees and is a member of many organizations.
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win-Win” environment for everyone involved, and in being the best he can be!
For more information about James Donaldson or to request he speak at your event, contact him at:
James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” and “Celebrating Your Gift of Life” and founder of the Your Gift of Life Foundation which focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially pertaining to our school aged children and men.
If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at jamesd@yourgiftoflife.org and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161. Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at www.yourgiftoflife.org
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