15 + Reasons You Need Gratitude to Become More Successful

Gratitude: Everyone is talking about it, but no one is actually doing it. Maybe because people think it’s too easy? Or maybe they think it’s childish?

I don’t know. And frankly, I don’t care. Because I am using it and my clients are using and we are all achieving amazing results! And let’s talk about all the elite/amazing athletes and successful entrepreneurs who are raving about it too: Gary Vee, Arianna Huffington, Taylor Swift, Jennifer Lopez, Venus and Serena Williams and more.

Did you know that there’s science affirming gratitude’s amazing’ness?

And for us equestrians, in a sport/lifestyle that is hard, full of “moments” that come with horse ownership in general, and the pressure to perform well during your lessons, in clinics, and in competitions, having a tool in your back pocket to support you… is epic.

So, “How does gratitude help you?”

1. Mental Attitude: A grateful mindset helps riders focus on the positive aspects of their training and competitions, even during challenging times. This positive attitude can lead to increased motivation, resilience, and overall mental well-being, all of which contribute to improved performance.

2. Enhanced Focus: When equestrians are grateful for the opportunity to ride and bond with their horses, they are more likely to be fully engaged in their training sessions and competitions. This heightened focus can lead to better communication with the horse and, yes, improved performance.

3. Strengthened Relationship with Horses: Equestrians who approach their horses with gratitude and appreciation tend to build stronger bonds with their horses. Gratitude helps riders recognize the efforts and contributions of their horses, leading to better trust and cooperation between the rider and the horse. Who doesn’t want that?!

4. Stress Reduction: In the high-pressure world of equestrian sports, where riders often face nerves and performance anxiety, gratitude can be a valuable tool for managing stress. By focusing on what you are thankful for, you can shift your attention away from potential stressors and perform more confidently.

5. Increased Perseverance: Riding requires dedication and perseverance, because progress is often gradual and requires deep effort. By adding gratitude practice you can increase your sense of fulfillment and joy in your progress, no matter how small. This sense of accomplishment can motivate you to keep pushing forward and persist in your training, leading to long-term improvement.

6. Improved Dynamics: Expressing appreciation for barn mates, trainers, and grooms, and your horse promotes a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, leading to better teamwork, even at horse shows.

7. Positive Reinforcement: When you acknowledge and express gratitude for your achievements and the efforts you put into your training, you reinforce the behaviors that lead to success.

Ok. So now that you know the AMAZING effects of gratitude. Here are also 7 incredible ways it impacts your nugget, your brain. This part reads more textbook, but knowledge inspires us to understand why taking action is extremely beneficial.

1. Increased Dopamine: Expressing gratitude releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with reward and pleasure. Dopamine reinforces positive behaviors and motivates you to seek more of those same experiences.

2. Activation of the Hypothalamus: The hypothalamus is a part of the brain that regulates various bodily functions, including sleep, appetite, and metabolism leading to better overall health and stress reduction.

3. Boost in Serotonin: Gratitude has been linked to increased serotonin levels in the brain, which can contribute to a more positive outlook on life and decreased symptoms of depression and anxiety. Serotonin plays a crucial role in mood regulation.

4. Reduction in Stress Hormones: Gratitude practices have been shown to decrease the production of stress hormones, such as cortisol. And with lower cortisol levels you can perform better. Y’all hear that?!

5. Activation of the Brain’s Reward System: Expressing gratitude can activate the brain’s reward circuitry, including the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the nucleus accumbens. These areas are associated with pleasure and reinforcement, leading to a positive feedback loop that encourages more gratitude and positive thinking.

6. Enhanced Neuroplasticity: Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. Gratitude practices have been linked to enhanced neuroplasticity, potentially leading to improved cognitive function and emotional resilience.

7. Activation of the Prefrontal Cortex: The prefrontal cortex is involved in decision-making, emotional regulation, and social behavior. Gratitude activates this region, which can help improve decision-making skills, increase empathy, and foster stronger social connections.

Ultimately, whether you’re an equestrian, an athlete, an entrepreneur or just a person wanting to uplevel.. this article was for you.

P.S. Want to control your anxiety, without the struggle? Sign up for a consult!