Why you should be thankful for what you don’t have now

It is not uncommon to feel discouraged with life. Even dejected. Dissatisfied with where we currently are. And brooding over what we are yet to have, for example cars, houses, spouses, children, degrees and you name it. However, we also fail to acknowledge what we don’t have now.

While it may seem counterintuitive, there are instances where gratitude for not having something can be beneficial. Here are some scenarios of being grateful for what you don’t have now.

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You are not in a toxic or unhealthy relationship

If you have avoided or removed yourself from toxic or unhealthy relationships, it can be appropriate to feel grateful for not having those negative influences in your life. Recognizing the absence of harmful relationships can create space for healthier connections and personal growth.

You don’t have any destructive addiction

Addiction can range from excessive drinking of alcohol, pornography, masturbation, and you know it. If you have successfully overcome destructive habits or addictions, expressing gratitude for not having those challenges anymore can be a positive mindset. You should be thankful for the progress made. Not having these addictions reinforces healthier choices and can serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience you possess.

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No sickness nor terminal illness

Health is wealth, and this is an enduring truth. If you are not spending days in hospitals or your hard-earned money on drugs, I believe you should be grateful. People spend millions on surgeries and medications every passing day. Being alive alone is a privilege, and you should harness that privilege to build a positive mindset.

No difficult or painful experiences

Some difficult or painful experiences (rejection, death of loved ones, accident, heartbreak, dismissal from work, and losing one’s valuables or life savings) can be transformative and provide valuable life lessons.

While you may not be grateful for the specific hardships themselves, you can be grateful for the growth, wisdom, or resilience gained as a result of overcoming those challenges.

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However, it’s important to approach this perspective with sensitivity, as not everyone’s circumstances are the same. Expressing gratitude for not having certain things should be done with empathy and understanding, recognizing that others may be experiencing those challenges.