It is quite simple: either be grateful or bitter. But if you feel gratitude when everything sucks, the reward will be much more powerful.

We're living in a different world than it was 20, 30 years ago. Not that previous generations didn't have their fair share of challenges. But, they didn't have this raging tempo and everyday stresses, which only make more essential things in life almost unbearable. So how do we handle this? How do you stay sane? Try being grateful for what you have.

Gratitude during times when it feels like you have nothing has a special meaning. It shows that you love life and that you're willing to fight for it. It seems rather cruel to ask someone to be grateful while they have almost nothing left. But, here's the thing: as long as you are here, things can change. You can change them, but you'll get nowhere by being bitter. Drowning in self-pity won't get you far, but having faith and counting your blessings is where dreams start.

Gratitude is a powerful catalyst for happiness.

When your world is closing in, take a look at the people around you. People who love and accept you. Look at how far you have come, despite the recent setback. And make sure to notice the gift of life, the air you're breathing, and the food you're eating. No, you can't stay positive all the time. You can get angry and sad, but still, find something that's good. Let that be your light and your strength.

While people are always a blessing, when was the last time you expressed gratitude for your home, bed, and you are small yet nicely arranged kitchen? Your pets love you unconditionally, so here's another being to be grateful for. And look at your old photos: your smile was breathtaking. Maybe it's still is. Try.

Gratitude is the only attitude you'll need to survive, then thrive!

Finding joy in the smallest, silliest things is a way to gain some sense of balance and to be prepared. Though it sounds a bit ominous, life can get rather harsh at times. It may seem as if you're losing everything, but that's not true. You still have you; you still have this day and a chance to make things even the tiniest bit better. Let your survival instincts kick in, as your head is calm and collected.

There's no need to push yourself into false positivity. No one's going to tell you to be happy while you're going through significant disappointments. But, you still can be thankful to God, the universe, or yourself, for all that you are. It's nothing but a shift in perspective.

Gratitude turns what we have into enough.

Life will knock you down. People will continue to be cruel. But there are two sides to every story, and you already know that life's also amazing. It's a gift, a beautiful, and a strange concept. And people? Well, you are one of them, so there are still many kind souls in the world. So, when life gives you lemons, don't just make lemonade. Take the seeds and plant them and wait for another miracle.