A useful self-help exercise commonly practiced in various 12-step programs. The goal of this task is to focus upon the positive aspects of one's life. This is definitely recomended during dufficult times as a method for shifting one's mental perspective. The act of physically writing out a list makes the items it contains seem more tangible. A gratitude list may contain basic things like housing, employment or food. More detailed lists may include things otherwise taken for granted like the ability to see, walk, or hear. Frequently, these lists will (and should) also have a sprinkling of simple joys.