Gratitude Basics
What does it mean to "practice gratitude"?
To recognize and appreciate the good things and people in your life.
What’s one simple way to express gratitude to a friend?
Saying “thank you” or sending a note/text/gift of appreciation.
How does gratitude improve communication?
It builds trust and makes conversations more positive.
True or False: Expressing gratitude can increase motivation to pursue personal goals.
True
True or False: All cultures express gratitude in the same ways
False
True or False: Gratitude only applies to big life events.
False – it’s often about small, everyday moments.
True or False: Expressing gratitude can improve physical health.
True: Studies link gratitude to better sleep and immunity.
How can expressing gratitude before giving feedback make it more effective?
It opens the listener up and makes the feedback feel caring rather than critical.
Keeping a gratitude practice can increase:
A) Fixed mindset tendencies
B) Emotional flexibility and adaptability
C) Resistance to change
D) Social withdrawal
B) Emotional flexibility and adaptability
What type of gratitude is powerful in healthy relationships—specific or general?
Specific gratitude (naming exactly what you appreciate)
What emotion is most closely connected to gratitude?
Appreciation or joy.
Name one non-verbal way to show gratitude in a relationship.
A smile, hug, or kind gesture.
What’s one communication habit that can block/hinder gratitude?
Interrupting, judging, or assuming instead of listening. Taking things for granted or focusing on what’s missing.
Gratitude helps people focus on what’s ______ rather than what’s missing.
Present, important, or positive.
True or False: Setting boundaries means you’re ungrateful for what others do.
False — boundaries help relationships stay healthy and mutual.
True or False: Gratitude can be practiced even during difficult times.
True: it helps people find meaning and resilience in hardship.
How can volunteering be an expression of gratitude?
It gives back to the community and shows appreciation for what you have.
How can gratitude help repair communication after a misunderstanding? !!!
Thanking the person for clarifying or being patient rebuilds trust and connection.
How can gratitude help in forgiveness?
It shifts focus to what you value about the person, easing resentment.
What part of the brain is most active when people practice gratitude?
A) Amygdala
B) Prefrontal cortex
C) Brainstem
D) Occipital lobe
B) Prefrontal cortex
Name one mental or emotional benefit of expressing gratitude.
Reduces stress, boosts happiness, or increases optimism.
What is an example of a daily habit that helps people build a gratitude mindset?
Keeping a gratitude journal. Saying/writing 1 thing you are grateful for. Daily/Nightly Reflection
How can using “thank you” instead of “sorry” improve communication?
It reframes the moment positively (e.g., “Thanks for waiting” instead of “Sorry I’m late”).
What’s one long-term effect of practicing gratitude in relationships?
Increased trust, emotional resilience, increased self esteem.
What hormone increases when people express gratitude, boosting connection and bonding?
A) Cortisol
B) Oxytocin
C) Adrenaline
D) Melatonin
B) Oxytocin