Each of us has many things to be grateful for in our lives. But sometimes we take them for granted or, even worse, we forget them in the midst of our crowded daily schedules. Working moms tell me that when they are really busy they find themselves focusing on what they don't have instead of treasuring what they do.

Returning home from a particularly stressful day at work, you might find yourself complaining that your house isn't clean, big or modern enough. When you've woken late and are rushing yourself and two school-age children out the door, your offspring's behavior may lead you to think (or say out loud) that they are wild and uncooperative. And if you are experiencing mounting deadlines and unreasonable demands at the office, it may be difficult for you to muster a positive attitude about your career.

If you find yourself thinking more about what is lacking in your life than reveling in its abundance, you may be unintentionally fostering an attitude of scarcity (there's just not and never will be enough). Life is not always perfect (it's not supposed to be) nor does it always go our way. But when you acknowledge what is working, when you are grateful for the simple joys of life, like a hug from your child, you become more aware of the goodness and abundance that surrounds you each day. Use these three strategies to help you create a more abundant life.

1. Acknowledge the Positives

You are what you focus on. Pay attention to all the positives in your life each day. Instead of concentrating on your messy house, be grateful that you have a safe and comfortable home. Make an effort to be really aware during your precious moments with your children rather than obsessing about the times they are exuberant and wily.

2. Practice Daily Gratitude

Begin by practicing gratitude on a daily basis. List mentally (or in a journal) five things you are thankful for each day. On challenging days you may only be able to cite the basics, like "I'm still breathing." On other days you may be able to articulate some very joyful moments and gifts. Review this list before you fall asleep. This practice of daily gratitude slows life down and makes it much more joyful.

3. Draft Your Abundance Statement

If you are ready to take things a step further, write your own abundance statement of twenty words or less. What does abundance mean to you? One of my clients adopted a personal abundance statement that she could turn to when she was feeling overwhelmed. It read: "There is enough. There will be enough. I am enough." Simple. Powerful.

Copyright 2006. Lisa Martin. All rights reserved.