Gratitude

Gratitude is generally considered an active emotion rather than a passive one. While it can arise spontaneously in response to a positive experience, expressing gratitude requires conscious recognition and action.

Here’s why gratitude is active:

1. It involves awareness – You need to notice and acknowledge something positive, whether it’s kindness from another person, good fortune, or personal achievements.

2. It often requires a response – Gratitude typically leads to actions like saying “thank you,” writing a note, or returning a favor.

3. It can be cultivated – Unlike passive emotions that happen to us (e.g., sadness or surprise), gratitude can be deliberately practiced through reflection, journaling, or expressing appreciation.

However, gratitude has a passive aspect as well, in that it can arise naturally without intentional effort—like when you feel thankful for a beautiful sunset or a kind gesture.

Would you say you actively practice gratitude, or is it something you experience more spontaneously?