A wise philosopher once cautioned, “The things a man allows to occupy his mind are the things that occupy his life”.

While nobody intentionally chooses to rob themself of joy, it’s what happens when we constantly dwell on our problems. Unfortunately, always focusing on what’s wrong can be a hard habit to break.  Changing that focus, however, can be as simple as designating a special time each day to stop and note the things you’re grateful for. Taking a few minutes every day to center your thoughts on what’s good, what’s right, and what’s beautiful in each day can literally transform your entire life.

Dr. Alex Korb, an author and neuroscientist at UCLA, explains that feeling and expressing gratitude stimulates the hypothalamus section of the brain which controls a range of body functions including emotion. According to Dr. Korb, gratitude activates the release of dopamine, the neurotransmitter typically associated with feelings of happiness.

Keeping a gratitude journal is a real, scientifically-backed way to push yourself toward positive behavioral change. You won’t just think differently, you’ll feel and act differently as you begin to experience a whole new level of clarity and a

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