Write a thank-you letter.

According to the May 2010 issue of Prevcention magazine, students who wrote letters expressing gratitud to someone special were happier and more satisfied with their lives (researchers at Kent State University found). Other research has shown that expressive writing may imporove immune, lung, and liver function; reduce blood pressure; and provide a greater sense of well-being.

A similar idea is to write down 3 to 5 things each day for a month that make you feel grateful. I often have clients do this one because I know it works from personal experience.  If you’re feeling down in dumps, the grateful exercise will get you out of it. Give it a try and let me know what happens. I’d love to hear some of your stories. Please send your stories to tracy@tracystanley.com.