Research shows those who practice gratitude are more optimistic, feel more energetic, have stronger immune systems, handle stress more easily, and are less prone to depression. If you see your glass as half empty, try these techniques to cultivate a thankful outlook:

• Start a gratitude journal: Keep a list (3-5 things, a few times a week) of what you’re thankful for, from the mundane to the extraordinary — like a good friend, close relative, or pet; a day of nice weather; natural beauty… even just the comfort of a warm bath and bed.

• Express it: Reach out to those who’ve inspired you. A university professor studied students who were required to send real letters of gratitude to mentors. The results: Many students showed stronger feelings of happiness the more often they wrote.

• Make new habits: Practice optimism. Make an effort to look for the good as you go about your day. With practice and retraining your thought process, you’ll learn to accentuate the positive.