FULFILLMENT, is a State of Mind.

(How do Caregivers feel so fulfilled with so little to be Happy About?)

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign looked at a diverse sample of 962 Swiss adults ranging in age 19 - 84 years old. Through a series of questionnaires, they found that GRATITUDE was significantly related to Fulfillment, even when considering age and other personality traits.

"Other links came from the idea that dispositional traits influence our Attitude." Ultimately, you're more likely to stick to your goals when feeling positive (since stress makes most people want to snuggle up to a bag of Doritos). 

Finding Fulfillment, might b easy as incorporating a few new habits.

Try these suggestions.  To begin with,  jot down a few positive statements and stick them on your mirror. This way, you're both actively thinking positive and passively being reminded to keep it up. Make it personal. One ma's junk is another man's treasure. This is NOT one size fits all.

Give back. "Volunteering is proven to boost moods, and it's highly likely to increase your own gratitude,"  If you don't believe us, try helping out an animal shelter without feeling warm & fuzzy when you leave. In other words, pick a charity. Any charity. Just pick ONE. It will lead to your own Fulfillment.

Think small. When we imagine being thankful, our minds usually go to big picture things like family and finances. But focusing on little stuff is just as crucial. Let yourself get excited when you're having a crazy-good hair day or when someone cooks you dinner.

Stock up on stationary. Whether you received a gift or a colleague met you for coffee, follow it up with a hand-written note. It makes you look good, but it also ensures that you act on gratitude, which can become a great habit. And, did I say it makes you look good?

Step back from social media. The recent epidemic of Facebook friends posting what they're thankful for may inspire you—or it could make you feel like you pale in comparison to their blessings. "If it's bringing you down, take a break," Stress is not conducive to Fulfillment. And, liking and sharing is not life altering if you don't participate. Take a BREAK.  Be still the clutter.

Ditch the guilt. We often downplay how grateful we are when we know others aren't as fortunate.   Guilt sabotages Fulfillment. That's not to say we are given to gloating or wallowing in good fortune. Gratefulness is an important stepping stone in the path to Fulfillment. Don't let guilt steal your gratitude.

Everyone's definition of Happy, or Fulfillment is different. But Caregivers who are over worked and underpaid, somehow seem to have a gift for being Happy with a lot less. We can take a page from their books by looking at these fundamental tools. Simplify. Gratefulness. Guilt Free. Giving Back. Appreciate the small things. Respect & Love thyself.