In life, we witness many people who are not grateful for the things they have. At one point in time, they may have appreciated what they have. But after a while, they became so used to what they have that they started taking things-- and people-- for granted. Here are some simple ways in which you can ease your way into becoming more grateful for everything in life.

1. Acquire a type of faith

You don’t have to be Christian to believe in God. Even if you don’t believe in God, you can still have faith in nature or the universe-- whatever makes more sense in your life. If you, on a day-to-day basis, give thanks to God, Gods, nature, and/or the Universe, you will steadily begin to realize how much you have to be grateful for and appreciative for.

1. Acknowledge your surroundings

Before or after school or work, learn how to isolate yourself in a room or surrounded by nature. Be sure that it’s only you in the room, if possible and for best effects. Play your favorite songs; look at some soothing pictures; enjoy your favorite drink-- surround yourself and treat yourself with the things you love best. Now, I want you to think for a minute and imagine what your life would be like without the things you love most. What if your favorite songs never existed? What if the photographer never took those pictures or discovered that location? What if the person who created your favorite drink never came into existence? There is an infinite amount of questions that could be asked. Never take anything for granted. Everyone and everything came into your life for a reason!

1. Appreciate everything you have.

That being said, what do you have in life? Not much? Everything? Happiness depends on the person and how much he/she helps others or how many relationships one has in life. One can have all the objects and money in the world and still not be happy. On the other hand, one can have all the friendships, relationships, and family and feel content. Whether you have much or little of objects and people, learn to appreciate them by thanking this world and God(s)/the Universe. Learn that everything is temporary in your life and nothing lasts forever; so enjoy everyone and everything before they’ll be gone.

1. Be thankful for everyone and everything in your life

You never know when a person’s time will be. Love people more than objects. Give more than you take. Help others with every chance you can get and you will not only find happiness, but peace and gratefulness.

1. Realize there are people out there that don’t have what you have or want what you have.

In life, you will either be rich with people or rich with money-- it’s all about perception. You can be rich in spirit and heart but poor, mentally. Or you can be rich in all and poor in none. However you look at your life situation, if you don’t like something, never be afraid to change it. Life is a journey and changes every day. Learn to be grateful and appreciated for everything and everyone you have and for what everyone has done for you and you will find peace and utmost joy.