G.L.A.D. will change your mind...

One of the tools we teach at the outpatient mental health treatment program where I work is G.L.A.D. Here's how it works: When you're feeling sad, depressed, in a rut, discouraged, or find yourself the guest of honor at tonight's Pity Party, give this tool a try. 

Come up with at least one example of:
G- Something you're grateful for 
L- Something you learned today
A- Something you accomplished today
D- Something that brings you delight

I like this technique because it goes beyond the simple gratitude list, which I can easily scoff at when I'm feeling down. It forces me to reframe my day into experiences and accomplishments that I can take responsibility for (Yes, I DID accomplish something today). It also forces me to move out of focusing on the negative and into a frame of mind where delight is possible. 

Here's my GLAD list for today:

G: A beautiful, hot, fall day reminds me that although winter is coming, it's not here yet. For those of us living in northern latitudes, the approach of darker days makes sunshine precious this time of year. It's something that's easy to be grateful for.
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L: I learned about the ways our brains respond to watching performance art in this multimedia piece from the Washington Post. Check it out for yourself...

A: I took a long walk this morning, something I like to do, but easily forget to make time for. My body is thanking me.

D: Monarch butterflies that have been visiting us lately! Such beauty, strength and wisdom packed into a small, fluttering body. I always feel blessed when they choose our flowers to visit. 

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