In life, for some strange reason, it seems easier to focus on the negative rather than the positive. When we look back on the past month, we can easily conjure up memories of when everything went horribly wrong, but when things go smoothly, we tend to let it slide through our consciousness unnoticed.

Maybe it’s evolutionary. In the interest of self-preservation, we’re wired to focus on the negative so as to be prepared. When things fall apart, it triggers a stronger emotional response than when things come together. While this might better serve our survival as a species, it can make for some pretty severe misery on a case-by-case basis.

Gratitude is a powerful feeling, but it needs to be cultivated. We need to focus our energy to feel it. When we do, it acts as a way for us to create lasting relationships founded on positive interaction and feel good about our world. Here are some simple tips to keep gratitude at the forefront of your mind.

Take note

Keep a journal and go out of your way to list anything and everything positive. Don’t let the good things that surround you remain invisible. Be receptive to the gifts all around you. When you write down the little things, you start to recalibrate your mind and cultivate a positive world view. Write at least once a day, and keep track of positive instances by making a note on your phone as you move through your routine.

Recognize your own accomplishments

Every day is a bit of a battle. No matter what our job is, what the struggle amounts to, we fight daily to better ourselves and the world around us. We need to bask in the glory of small victories from time to time and let that glory fortify us so we can get back in the ring for another round. When you score a victory, take some time to celebrate. Treat yourself with a tangible reward like a small purchase or some special R&R.

Show appreciation for others.

We all have people in our lives who care about us. Whether they’re coworkers, friends, or family, it can be easy to take them for granted, especially when life gets stressful. Setting aside a few moments to reach out and express your gratitude will go a long way toward keeping you centered—and might just make their day as well.

When we maintain a healthy level of gratitude, we gain a better perspective on life and find ourselves better equipped to deal with obstacles. We start to look at things from a high-level perspective and stop sweating the small stuff.