In this presentation, I share my experiences with the power of a daily Gratitude Practice. Here are some links to help you with more information: drspikecook.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/spikecook/

1. How to Develop a Gratitude
Practice
Spike C. Cook, Ed.D.
January 2018

2. Start with Why?
• Has been found to lower stress
• Helps develop a new perspective
on your world
• Can help you track areas in your
life that are working well
• Provides a reflective, personal
space for YOU!

3. What is a Gratitude Journal?
• A daily journal (either on
computer, phone or traditional
notebook)
• A compilation of areas from your
daily experience
• A simple record of things you
feel grateful for

4. Step One
• Find your time. For me it's in
the morning when I wake up.
• For you it could be in the
evening or maybe even midday
at lunch. Find a time and stick
with it.

5. Step Two
• Find your medium. For me it's
my phone. I use the "Notes"
application and I just type away.
• You could use a written journal
or even a desktop version. Use
whatever works best and is
easiest for you.

6. Step 3
• Reflect on the previous day. Take
a few minutes to get centered.
• I sit in a chair with my device
and think about the previous
day.

7. Step 4
• Write your Gratitude List. I write
5 things everyday. Some days are
more difficult than others.
• Start with the morning and go
through your day sequentially if
needed.

8. Step 5
• Gratitude Meditation. This is the best part of the process for me. I
remain seated in the chair and take 3 breaths to become centered. I
then look at the list and I read it to myself one at a time. I then say, "I
am grateful for .... and I read one." I then take a breath in between
each item on the list. I then re read each of the items on the list and
after each I say, "Thank you, thank you, thank you."

9. Reflection
Take a few minutes and think about 5 things you are grateful for in your
life right now
Write these 5 things down and then take a few minutes to ground
yourself with breathing as you reflect on this gratitude list
How did this make you feel?

10. For More Information
• Spike C. Cook, Ed.D., Principal, Lakeside Middle School, Millville, NJ. In
addition to being a Principal, Dr. Cook published two book through
Corwin Press (Connected Leadership:It’s Just a Click Away; Breaking
Out of Isolation: Becoming a Connected School Leader). He is the co-
host of the popular PrincipaPLN podcast and his blog, Insights Into
Learning, was recognized as a finalist for Best Administrator Blog by
the EduBlog Awards. Connect with @drspikecook via Twitter.