It’s interesting how we take things for granted until we don’t have them anymore. It’s such a widespread human problem. Even when we are aware, it seems nearly impossible to constantly be grateful for all that we have.

For me, this happens most when it comes to physical health. Yes, I take an active role in staying healthy. It’s a priority for me. Even so, when I do hurt myself or get ill, I can’t believe how good I usually feel – and how I kind of assume it will always be that way. The contrast reminds me why I take such care to move and nourish my body the rest of the time.

This can apply to any area of your life. Do you take your relationships for granted? The positive qualities of your job or your hobbies? It’s easy to focus on what’s going wrong, but often we don’t see what’s going right until something disrupts it. I know that now, as my lower back twinges every time I bend or turn, I am wistfully longing for the easy way I usually move my body around with very little thought or effort.

Taking nothing for granted is certainly a practice. We can begin with little steps, just like we would with anything. You can start in any area of your life. Give gratitude for all the positive elements of whatever it might be. Start with something that you already feel pretty good or at least neutral about, so that it’s easier to develop the habit. Once you feel like you are improving at appreciating what’s good in that area, you can transition into those that challenge you.

When we appreciate our lives in the moment, we are able to move through discomfort and develop a more positive and hopeful attitude in general. We as humans fall so easily into negativity. What if it was just as natural to see the best in something? With time and practice, it can be. You’ve got this. Sending you lots of love.