Only when we are planted in an appreciative environment, will our soul, psyche and body naturally grow to its full potential. Read on to find out how to develop an appreciative gaze that nurtures you and the world at large, says Suma Varughese

Exercise appreciation

On our appreciation journey, the place to begin is with ourselves. We can only give what we have enough of and it is essential that we endorse the good within us. For the next 21 days, write down 10 things that you like about yourself each day. It could be the fact that you helped someone, or that you looked good in some outfit, or that you made a tasty dish, or achieved something at work, or received a precious compliment that made you feel really good about yourself. Share it with someone you love and trust, and see how much more appreciative you will feel about yourself. On the Internet, one Beth Allen quotes a suggestion by personal development expert Michael Allen to start a Sunshine File. Fill the file with feelgood messages you may have received, some notes to yourself you may have written, some old letters that make you feel good, and keep it close to where you habitually sit. Pull it out and pump yourself when you feel in need of appreciation.