Gratitude is often an underrated activity. Even if you expressed gratitude for just one minute a day you would see spectacular results in your happiness, success, and health.

Not only will you gain a more positive perspective on life, you will realize what you’ve been taking for granted.

But if you’re still skeptical, then let me give you 7 reasons why gratitude is essential for your happiness and well-being.

Gratitude increases your happiness levels dramatically.

It is scientifically proven that expressing gratitude on a daily basis will result in a huge boost in your happiness. And it isn’t a slow gradual thing. You’ll notice the effects immediately.

Studies have shown that the increase in happiness you receive is approximately 25% more than someone who doesn’t consciously express gratitude.And all it takes is just a few minutes of your time.

Gratitude leads to better health

A study conducted by Dr. Michael McCollough, of Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, and Dr. Robert Emmons, of the University of California at Davis indicates that gratitude does indeed play a very important role in a person’s health.

The study showed that people who kept gratitude journals on a weekly basis had fewer physical ailments, felt better about their lives, exercised more regularly, and were in general more optimistic about their upcoming week in comparison to those who just recorded neutral life occurrences. The same was concluded by Pyschology Today.

Gratitude makes you a better person

When expressing gratitude, your friends and family will see you as more generous and helpful. You’ll worry less about others, be less envious and enjoy helping people around you. You won’t take for granted all the amazing things and people in your life and truly know how wonderful you are

Gratitude inspires success

By appreciating all your accomplishments and small successes, you are more likely to set higher and higher goals for yourself. Companies have used praise and gratitude in the form of positive feedback to boost morale, productivity, and goal setting.

If you never appreciate the small accomplishments, you will not be as likely to work towards your personal goals, be as enthusiastic or determined.

Gratitude gives you a better night’s sleep

If you’re an insomniac, this one’s for you. By expressing gratitude during the day, studies have shown that you will sleep better at night and feel more energetic the following day. This may be due to the fact that you will be less stressed right before bedtime and not have countless worries and thoughts running through your head when you’re trying to catch some Zs.

Gratitude will make you a positive influence on others

When you make expressing gratitude a part of your daily routine, people will notice this. They may not say to your face that your acts of gratitude are a positive influence but they will notice your cheery spirits, the increase in happiness, and your bright outlook in life.

The energy you emit will be strong and make those around you feel more positive and want to be near you more often.

Gratitude makes you mindful of the present

By expressing gratitude everyday you will become aware of your present and more mindful of the moment you are in. You will increase your awareness of your actions and be in a better position to judge whether or not your current activities and decisions are in line with your principles, goals, and desires.