Last week, I found myself in a bit of a slump. Okay, let’s be honest; I’ve been feeling off for the past couple of months. I’ve been irritable, struggling to concentrate, and generally just feeling out of sorts. The weight of the ongoing global situation has left me mentally and emotionally drained. If you can relate, you’re not alone.
Many people advocate for the uplifting power of gratitude as a remedy for the blues. While it may sound cliché, there’s truth to the idea that our perspective can dramatically shift our moods. And the science backs it up too. Researchers, including Dr. Lucy Andrews from Stanford University and Dr. Mark Thompson from Yale, have found that individuals who regularly reflect on gratitude tend to experience increased optimism and life satisfaction compared to those who focus on negative aspects for an extended period.
Common gratitude practices often include keeping a gratitude journal, writing thank-you notes, or engaging in meditation. However, let’s face it, these activities can sometimes feel overwhelming. I’d love to dedicate time to journaling daily, but most days, I find myself racing through a packed schedule, too exhausted to do anything but zone out in front of the TV. As for letter writing, it often feels like a monumental task, and getting my kids to appreciate the little things is a challenge; they seem more interested in perfecting their complaining skills.
In simpler terms, while gratitude practices are beneficial, they can be difficult to maintain, especially in such chaotic times. That’s why I’m thrilled about the Gratitude Treasure Hunt concept shared by the Joyful Living Blog. Recently highlighted on the We Are Teachers Facebook page, it has quickly gained popularity, being shared over 6,400 times. This approach is refreshingly straightforward and feels more like a fun game than a task.
Similar to a traditional treasure hunt, this activity involves a list of items to discover that focus on “simple joys.” The hunt prompts participants to seek out things like “something that brings you joy” and “a favorite color.” It’s a delightful way to transform a family walk or even a virtual class activity into a joyful experience. As one participant pointed out, many of the items can even be found right at home—making gratitude more accessible than ever.
There are various options for gratitude treasure hunts, and you can even create your unique version if you’re feeling inspired! What I particularly love about these hunts is that they don’t come across as a “lesson” for the kids; instead, they turn into a fun game for the whole family. In this way, everyone can enjoy some lighthearted moments while embracing gratitude, making it a win-win situation.
Given how the pandemic has disrupted our lives, perhaps it’s time for a fresh outlook. My crankiness has become dull, and I’m ready for a change. A treasure hunt through my neighborhood could be just the remedy I need to remind myself of the beautiful, often overlooked blessings in life.
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In summary, engaging in a gratitude treasure hunt offers a playful and refreshing way to cultivate appreciation in our lives, especially during challenging times.