Trista Sutter: The Importance Of Gratitude (Exclusive)

Trista Sutter has a new book out, “Happily Ever After: The Life-Changing Power of a Grateful Heart.” And with the holiday season upon us, Trista visited Access Hollywood Live and also took some time to write about the importance of gratitude.

Here is her exclusive post for AccessHollywood.com…

Traditionally, the holidays are a time of recognizing blessings and showering our loved ones with attention and appreciation. We may do so in the form of cards or stocking stuffers, party invitations, presents wrapped with pretty bows or just in spending quality time together… as we should.

But, what I hope to be part of, is a movement-of-sorts in which people around the globe don’t save that appreciation exclusively for the holidays or special occasions. After reading my book, I hope the stories inside will inspire people everywhere to consciously choose to embrace gratitude and active appreciation for all 365 days of the year, and not just a select few.

“Happily Ever After: The Life-Changing Power of a Grateful Heart” is my attempt at being the change I wish to see in the world (as Mahatma Gandhi said). Included inside are stories from my life, my family and friends, people I’ve been introduced to, inspired by, or just read about on the Internet, as well as the findings of numerous studies that have proven the powerfully positive effects of living a life full of gratitude. Simply put: choose to be grateful and you will be happier.

PHOTOS: Trista Sutter Over The Years

To put it in perspective, think of the last time someone sincerely told you “thank you” or showed you that they appreciated you. How did it make you feel? Now, think back to the last time that you outwardly shared your appreciation for someone. Maybe you gave someone a hug or sent them a note or gift of thanks. How did that make you feel?

What I have to assume is that whatever your description of those feelings were, they were positive. You share your gratitude — you feel good. You accept gratitude — you feel good. Now, who doesn’t like to feel good?!

WATCH: Trista Sutter On Living ‘Happily Ever After’

So, what I ask of you this holiday season is to consciously choose to continue the positive spirit of the holidays all year round… especially when the bumps in the road show their ugly faces. Try the “Happily Ever Actions” that I mention at the end of each chapter, fill an Appreciation Jar from my Grateful Heart Collection with positive notes to a loved one or co-worker, jot down your #favepartofday like I do every night on social media, and consciously choose to focus on the blessings of your life that make each day worth living. Allow yourself to be human and experience the emotions that accompany the hardships of life, but pick yourself up and make conscious, constant decisions to live a happier life based on gratitude.

If you do, I promise that you won’t regret it.

To find out where you can purchase the book, watch the book trailer, or find out more about my Grateful Heart Collection, visit www.TristaSutter.com.

— Trista Sutter