Latest news with #gratitude
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
13 Signs Your Raised Ungrateful Grown Up Children
Sometimes, waking up to reality feels like sipping lukewarm coffee—disappointing but eye-opening. You might find yourself scanning through your life, scrolling through your memories, and suddenly hit a smack of realization: your grown-up kids, whom you've poured your soul into, are a tad ungrateful. It's a hard pill to swallow, but acceptance is the first step to change. So grab another cup of coffee, but this time, let's make it strong and hot. It's not that they don't know how to use their fancy smartphones; they're almost glued to them. But when was the last time they called just to check in on you? If your phone only rings when they need a favor, there's a problem. It's like you're an on-demand service, not the nurturing parent you once thought you were. Psychologist Robert Emmons, a leading gratitude researcher, suggests that gratitude is a cultivated habit. If your kids have never been taught to appreciate the small gestures, they might just see your constant availability as a given. When they only reach out in need, it's a sign that the emotional balance is tipped unfavorably. You don't want to be the last resort, do you? Remember those late nights when you stayed up baking cookies for their school events or the countless times you played chauffeur? Those weren't just acts of obligation, but expressions of love. However, do they look back and see these acts for what they were? If your sacrifices are met with a shrug or, worse, forgotten, you might be nurturing a growing ingratitude. It's hard to fathom how easily the scales tip from thankfulness to entitlement. They might have never learned to equate effort with appreciation, living in a world that rewards self-interest. When your past sacrifices are blurred into the background noise of their lives, it's a sign something's amiss. It's time to pull those memories out and polish them in a conversation. Do they walk into your home and treat it like a hotel, expecting things to be just so? If they demand luxuries without acknowledging their privilege, it's a surefire sign of entitlement. You raised them in a world where they learned hard work equals reward, but somewhere along the line, the equation skewed. They've started equating access with deserving, and that's a slippery slope. In a study conducted by Jean Twenge and Keith Campbell, it was found that the younger generations score higher on narcissism and lower on empathy. If they believe they're special without putting in the effort, it's likely they've missed out on understanding the value of gratitude. Entitlement isn't just about asking for more, it's about not appreciating what's already there. Time to rewrite the narrative. Gratitude is free; yet, for some, it feels costly. When was the last time you received a heartfelt "thank you" for your efforts? If your kindness is met with silence, you might be raising ungrateful adults. It's not about needing praise, but about mutual respect and acknowledgment. This lack of gratitude could stem from a lack of awareness or ignorance of how their actions affect others. Sometimes, they may simply not recognize the small gestures you make every day. It's possible that gratitude was never emphasized strongly enough to be habitual. Addressing it directly might be the uncomfortable, yet necessary, wake-up call they need. If your grown-up children act without a thought to your emotional landscape, it's a red flag. When you become an afterthought in their plans, it signifies a lack of empathy. It's not just about missed birthdays or forgotten anniversaries, but the lack of consideration for your well-being. Being sidelined in their emotional calculus is painful. According to the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley, empathy is a key component of a harmonious relationship. When your children ignore your emotional needs, they're missing out on a fundamental aspect of human connection. They need to understand that a relationship is reciprocal, not one-sided. It might be time for a serious heart-to-heart. Does every misstep or mistake have an external scapegoat? If your children are constantly deflecting blame, it's a sign of emotional immaturity. Life throws curveballs, but if they're consistently swinging and missing without introspection, there's trouble. Responsibility is the cornerstone of gratitude and self-awareness. When they fail to own up, they miss the growth that comes from learning from their mistakes. It fosters a dangerous pattern where accountability is absent, leading to broken relationships and professional setbacks. You want your children to learn, not just from their triumphs, but from their failures as well. It's a tough lesson, but a crucial one for them to become grounded adults. Busy lives, hectic schedules, we get it. But if they can binge a new series over the weekend but can't squeeze in a coffee with you, there's a disconnect. Time is one of the most generous gifts they can give, yet it's often the hardest to receive. If they consistently choose other obligations over you, it might be time for a reality check. According to time-use studies reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people spend more time on personal care and leisure than we realize. It's not about having hours on end, but acknowledging the value of shared moments. The essence of gratitude is making space for those who matter. If you're not on the list, it's time to have that conversation. Are you constantly feeling judged for your decisions, past or present? When grown-up kids critique your life choices, it can feel like an assault on your autonomy. They might not realize that every choice you made was with their betterment in mind. It's jarring when the roles reverse and they position themselves as the all-knowing critics. Criticism is sometimes a reflection of their own insecurities or misunderstandings. They might think they are helping, but more often than not, it just comes off as ungrateful. Encouraging open dialogue about these judgments can help them see from your perspective. Critique should be constructive, not destructive. Financial or emotional, if they run to you with every crisis and expect a rescue, it's a problem. While it's natural to want to help, the perpetuity of rescue missions signifies a lack of independence. They need to learn self-reliance, not just rely on your safety net. Consistently bailing them out only reinforces dependency. The expectation that you'll always be the one to fix things negates their personal responsibility. It fosters an unhealthy relationship dynamic where they don't develop the skills to manage life's challenges. It may be hard, but allowing them to stumble might be what they need to learn resilience. You're a parent, not a superhero. Do they show up unannounced, expecting meals and a place to crash, or demand your time without regard for your plans? This disregard for your boundaries is a stark indicator of ingratitude. Boundaries are the invisible lines that uphold mutual respect and personal space. Disrespecting them isn't just inconsiderate; it's ungrateful. It's crucial for your well-being that these boundaries are established and respected. When they overstep, it's a sign they're taking your generosity for granted. This behavior needs addressing before it erodes the relationship further. Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, not intrusions. Everyone forgets now and then, but if they're consistently missing significant milestones in your life, it's more than just poor memory. It's a sign of where their priorities lie. When important dates pass unacknowledged, it implies a lack of significance placed on your relationship. These moments are the threads that weave the tapestry of connection. Forgetting these occasions suggests an emotional distance that might be growing between you. It's not about grand gestures, but the small acknowledgments that matter the most. If they can't remember the dates that are important to you, it may be time to have an open discussion about their priorities. Every missed moment is a missed opportunity for connection. When they reach out, is it always a hand out instead of a hand up? If they constantly seek your assistance without ever reciprocating, it suggests an imbalance. Relationships are a give-and-take, not a one-way street. A lack of reciprocity can leave you feeling like the relationship is based on obligation rather than mutual care. They might assume your resources are infinite, both emotionally and materially. Offering help is natural, but expecting it as a given skews the equilibrium. They need to learn that relationships thrive on mutual support, not just one-sided assistance. It's time they understand the value of giving back. Mistakes happen, but if "I'm sorry" is missing from their vocabulary, there's a problem. The inability to apologize suggests a lack of accountability and emotional maturity. It's not just about admitting fault, but about respecting the relationship enough to want to make amends. An apology is a small act with big implications. Apologies are the glue that mends fractures in any relationship. Without them, grudges and resentment can fester, poisoning otherwise good connections. If they struggle to say those two simple words, it might be time to model what a sincere apology looks like. Forgiveness is rooted in acknowledgment, and that starts with an apology.
South China Morning Post
6 days ago
- General
- South China Morning Post
China twins kneel to thank Grandpa after crucial exam, home decorated with award certificates
Twin brothers in China who knelt before their grandfather to express their gratitude after completing the national college entrance exam have moved countless people online. Emotions were further heightened when it was later revealed that the walls of their modest home were covered with award certificates. The heartfelt moment was first shared on June 9 in a video posted by an internet user known as Caicai's Vlog who has more than 2.1 million followers. The video shows the twin brothers from Liaocheng, Shandong province, in eastern China, kneeling down to thank their 70-year-old grandfather, Wang Yankai, after completing their college entrance exam. One of the twins gives his grandfather a hug immediately after completing the key test. Photo: Douyin In the footage, their grandfather is seen waiting outside the exam venue.
South China Morning Post
7 days ago
- Business
- South China Morning Post
How expressing gratitude can brighten up your job and life, and how to go about it
The first thing Alison Jones does when she wakes up is name three things she is grateful for. It can be as simple as the breeze from a fan or as meaningful as the way a friend showed up for her emotionally. Jones, an organisational development consultant, says the daily practice has helped her through hardships and the anxiety and vulnerability of starting her own business as a single mother. 'When you practise gratitude, you train your brain to always look for the positive in anything. It just completely shifts everything you're going through,' she says. 'You start to see the lessons in the pain. You start to see the beauty in the very difficult times because you realise, 'Hey, I'm growing stronger.'' Alison Jones names three things she is grateful for when she wakes up. Photo: Instagram/wellness_society_alison Practising and encouraging gratitude can be a simple way to boost morale at a time when lay-offs and economic uncertainty are causing stress and anxiety Some employers have found that workers who receive expressions of gratitude show more engagement and willingness to help others.
Forbes
14-06-2025
- General
- Forbes
Celebrate Dad Sustainably: Thoughtful, Eco-Friendly Father's Day Gifts
Father's Day is just around the corner, and while the ties, tools, and tech gadgets are flying off shelves, there is an opportunity to reflect on what celebrating fathers and father figures mean in a more intentional and sustainable way. Culturally, Father's Day often carries less fanfare than Mother's Day, but the impact of a father is no less profound. Whether it is a biological dad, stepfather, grandfather, uncle, big brother, mentor, coach, or teacher, this day is a moment to honor the men who have shown up with protection, provision, wisdom, presence, and quiet strength. As we celebrate them, we also have the opportunity to do with intention to them and to honor the planet for future generations. According to the National Retail Federation, U.S. consumers are expected to spend $24 billion on Father's Day in 2025, slightly above the $22.4 billion spent in 2024. The top gifts? Clothing, special outings, gift cards, and electronics. Beneath the wrapping paper and price tags lies a growing environmental footprint. Electronics and fast fashion in particular are linked to rising e-waste and carbon emissions. Showing gratitude for the men who raised us, protected us, and supported us, can happen without deepening environmental harm. Here are 5 meaningful, sustainable Father's Day ideas that honor him and the Earth. Research has shown that experiential gifts create more lasting happiness than material ones. Whether it is cooking a meal together, going on a hike, a Father's Day Brunch or watching sports together, these are the moments that stay long after the receipts fade. If you are far away from your dad, virtual dad time with a surprise food delivery or a even a personal video message will be meaningful and carry minimal environmental impact. Dads are often the family handymen and this Father's Day you can flip the script and offer to help him with that project that he has been postponing, and we all know that he has a few. Whether it is cleaning the gutters in preparation for the hurricane season, assembling a new shelf, or organizing his storage space. It costs nothing but your time and significantly reduces the need for rushed purchases or replacements and he would appreciate the gesture. Daughter helping father with phone apps getty New gadgets and tools might be tempting Father's Day purchases and the reality is that many are prematurely replaced, long before the end of their useful life. There is a wasteful cycle applies to power tools and tech as they often end up in landfills due to minor issues like battery failure or dull blades. This year, you should consider giving his gear new life. Simply help dad update the software on his favorite devices, replace worn-out parts on his tools, or declutter and organize his digital workspace. If he truly needs a new item, you can opt for a refurbished or modular model from reputable sellers like Back Market which offer like-new tech products with warranties. Better yet, schedule a tech or tool clean-up date where you sort cables, test his gear, delete junk files, and teach him shortcuts that he can actually use. This is the kind of quality time that saves money, reduces waste, and makes his daily routine smoother. Men's grooming is a growing market, with Statista reporting global revenue of $115 billion projected by 2028. However, many shaving creams, colognes, and aftershaves contain harmful chemicals and come in non-recyclable packaging. Choose brands like Bulldog Skincare for Men which uses recyclable packaging and natural ingredients. You can also select local artisan brands which not only support local entrepreneurs but reduces the carbon footprint by purchasing local brands. Curated Father's Day Gift getty Similarly, you can create a personalized gift box with items that your dad actually wants. Think of it as a combination gift box: include one or two small tools or tech gadgets that he has been eyeing, then balance it out with local or eco-conscious finds or personal grooming items. A personalized, sustainable gift box allows you to blend practicality with intentionality, this flexibility enables you to choose products that are useful, ethically made, and have lower environmental impact. You can even add a bit of tech like a solar-powered gadget which could be a power bank or a even a crank radio which are both functional and future-proof. Here is a list of other solar tech gadgets that your dad may love, which ranges from solar fridge to solar radio. Your combination box can have items from local artisans such a s bamboo socks, artisanal beard oil, or even a bottle of organic wine. Father's Day is a moment to express appreciation and that does not mean excess or at the detriment of the environment. The beauty of it is that a growing number of us are realizing that love, whether for our fathers or our planet, can be shown in thoughtful, low-impact ways. So with that in mind, we can reflect on the role they have played in our lives and finding ways to celebrate that through intentional, low-impact actions. It is a chance to give back to the men who have enriched our lives and to protect the planet they helped shape us to care about.
Washington Post
12-06-2025
- General
- Washington Post
When times are tough, practicing gratitude can improve moods in the workplace
NEW YORK — The first thing Alison Jones does when she wakes up is to name three things she's grateful for. It can be as simple as the breeze from a fan or as meaningful as the way a friend showed up for her emotionally. Jones, an organizational development consultant, said the daily practice has helped her through hardships and the anxiety and vulnerability of starting her own business as a single mom. 'When you practice gratitude, you train your brain to always look for the positive in anything. It just completely shifts everything you're going through,' she said. 'You start to see the lessons in the pain. You start see the beauty in the very difficult times because you realize, 'Hey, I'm growing stronger.'' Practicing and encouraging gratitude can be a simple way to boost morale at a time when layoffs and economic uncertainty are causing stress and anxiety. Some employers have found that workers who receive expressions of gratitude show more engagement and willingness to help others. Other proponents say expressing and receiving appreciation can help reduce stress, as well as improve a person's mood and outlook. But despite its benefits, promoting gratefulness is often overlooked as a valuable way to spend time and resources in the workplace. Experts in organizational change shared ways to incorporate more gratitude into the workday. If you're new to practicing gratitude, you can start at home with a routine such as Jones' custom of expressing gratitude before getting out of bed. She made her gratitude practice easy so it would become a sustainable habit. Her one rule is avoiding repetition and stretching her mind to find new things to be grateful for each day. Jones also recommends finding a 'gratitude buddy' to share with. A buddy may be a friend from work or your social circles, and ideas can be exchanged in person, by text or email, or during a phone call. Many people find it helpful to list what they're grateful for in a journal. At work, a team leader can begin a staff meeting by expressing gratitude for what went well in the last week, suggested Peter Bonanno, a consultant who helps companies design mindfulness-based programs. As humans, we often have a bias toward negativity, but gratitude 'just does an enormous amount to shift people's mindsets and the way they engage with each other,' he said. 'Gratitude is especially powerful in that way. It doesn't take a long time for people to notice an impact.' O.C. Tanner Institute, a software and service company, helps organizations find effective ways to show appreciation to their employees, such as managers giving handwritten notes of thanks . The company helped American Airlines develop a system for managers and colleagues to recognize good work with points that can be applied to a catalog order. It also helped Amway create gift boxes to celebrate workers' accomplishments and important personal milestones, such as buying a home or adopting a child. 'Recognition impacts so many facets of the employee experience. And when you do it well, it connects people back to a deep sense of purpose and meaning,' said Meghan Stettler, a director at O.C. Tanner. Some companies donate their own products to thank nurses, doctors, police officers, firefighters and other workers who serve their communities . Frontline Builders, a nonprofit organization launched during the pandemic, connects donors of snacks, drinks and personal care items with recipients. 'We've all worked in that job where we weren't shown gratitude and realized how much that stinks,' said Jason Lalack, partnership director at Frontline Builders. 'Showing someone gratitude or showing appreciation doesn't really cost anything, and shouldn't be that difficult of a thing, and yet it's rarer than it should be.' Registered nurse Denise Whittsell remembers how quiet the hospital where she works became during the pandemic . The hallways of Denver Health, typically busy with families and guests, were suddenly empty as visits from outsiders were curtailed and patients battled illnesses alone. Once in a while, someone from the community would deliver gifts of gratitude: tasty snacks or handmade cards from schoolchildren. 'Those spontaneous recognitions were really sweet,' Whittsell said. 'It just felt really kind, and it felt like there was a lot of wrapping around us, a very supportive feeling.' Whittsell is part of a team of volunteers at Denver Health's RESTORE program, which connects front-line hospital workers with trained peer responders for confidential emotional support and training. The hospital started the program as a way to improve and sustain the emotional well-being of its workforce, said Tia Henry, the program's director. Volunteers take shifts so someone is available around-the-clock to answer calls from hospital personnel who are struggling with stressful events such as losing a patient or witnessing violence. Volunteers and staff regularly express gratitude for the program, Henry said. 'I've had calls on my way to work: 'I'm having a hard time and I need to talk with somebody who gets it,'' Whittsell said. 'It's a good way to give back to the people that I work with.' Aside from peer support, RESTORE also provides training and education to employees about stress, burnout and techniques to deescalate violence, Henry said. 'We're not doing counseling or therapy, but we're using components of psychological first aid to truly engage timely with our teammates when they're distressed, helping them calm their nervous system and get back to the place of regulation where they can show back up and do what it is they need to do or they can lay something down and go back home,' Henry said. 'That is gratitude from my lens.' Indy Public Safety Foundation, an Indianapolis nonprofit organization that supports front-line workers, shows gratitude to police, firefighters and paramedics through awards banquets, trainings, and showing up with food, shaking hands and saying thank you after a community tragedy. Foundation staff members take gratitude a step further by providing tools and equipment such as electric bikes for police patrols. While front-line workers were applauded during the pandemic , 'their work has continued and arguably not gotten any less stressful, and some of that support has waned,' said Dane Nutty, the foundation's president and CEO. While practicing gratitude may make for a more pleasant on-the-job environment, it's not a replacement for better working conditions. It's good to be grateful to have a job that pays the bills. It's also important to ask for what's fair. 'Being grateful absolutely doesn't mean that we accept anything subpar or inappropriate,' Jones said, adding that people should advocate for basic needs such as meal breaks. 'It's important not to confuse gratitude with being passive.' ___ Share your stories and questions about workplace wellness at cbussewitz@ Follow AP's Be Well coverage, focusing on wellness, fitness, diet and mental health at .
