Chellie Campbell is a talented actress, a successful businesswoman, a sharp poker player, and a fabulous storyteller. She’s also a friend, and I count her as one of my blessings.

In her wonderful book, The Wealthy Spirit, Chellie describes how, when she was a girl, her mother taught her to play the Glad Game. On days when Chellie came home from school complaining about something – a bully on the playground, a harsh teacher, a skinned knee, or difficult homework – Chellie’s mom would hug her, kiss away her tears, and then suggest, “OK, enough complaining. Let’s play the Glad Game.”

The Glad Game is another name for a Gratitude List. The Glad Game helps you focus on what’s right in your world today, instead of what’s wrong. Chellie’s mom was a very wise woman, teaching her that no matter what your troubles, there are still plenty of things to be grateful for: a sunny day, good food to eat, a loving family, a house to live in, a family pet to love, a handful of friends to enjoy, and much, much more.

Chellie would follow her mother’s suggestion:

“I’m glad I have you as my mom.”
“I’m glad the weekend is almost here.”
“I’m glad I have some nice clothes to wear to school.”
“I’m glad I don’t have to share my room with my sister anymore.”
“I’m glad I get to watch TV when I finish my homework.”
“I’m glad we have pie for dessert.”

Playing the Glad Game is a terrific way to change your attitude in a hurry. We all slip into self-pity once in a while – after all, we’re only human. The important thing is to cut short the pity-party and shift into gratitude. An attitude of gratitude gets us much farther in life than complaining and self-pity.

Thanks, Chellie. I’m glad you’re my friend.