By David Steindl-Rast
Estimated reading time: 4–5 minutes
"In our daily lives, we must see that it is not happiness that makes us grateful, but the gratefulness that makes us happy." This powerful David Steindl-Rast quote about happiness speaks to a hidden truth about what really fuels contentment in life. In a world where many of us chase after joy, often tying it to achievements or circumstances, this idea invites us to look at happiness from another angle. Its message is both practical and emotional, reminding us of the simple yet profound link between expressing gratitude and feeling true happiness.
What Does This Quote Mean?
To understand this David Steindl-Rast quote about happiness, it helps to take the words at face value first. The quote flips a common belief: many think happiness comes first, and gratitude simply follows. You get what you want, you're happy, and then you feel grateful. But Steindl-Rast challenges us to see that gratitude isn't a by-product of happiness; it is actually the driver. Feeling thankful does not spring from joyful experiences alone. Instead, it is choosing to notice and appreciate what's present — even the ordinary or challenging things — that creates happiness.
On a deeper level, this quote asks us to pay attention to our mindset. If we become people who always wait for big reasons to be happy, happiness becomes fleeting and unpredictable. Life's ups and downs make those joyful moments rare. But if we make gratitude a habit, our perspective shifts. Thankfulness doesn't need perfect circumstances; it grows from awareness of what we do have and what is currently good or meaningful. Over time, this outlook builds a sturdier, more reliable happiness, not based on luck or constant achievement but rooted in appreciation for life as it is.
So, in both practical and metaphorical terms, the core message is clear: gratitude plants the seeds of happiness. By changing what we focus on, we discover happiness as a result of grateful living. This principle does not ignore difficulties; rather, it offers a way to find light and joy even on ordinary or tough days.
How Can You Use This Quote in Life?
David Steindl-Rast's quote about happiness becomes more than words when we put it into action. Here are five practical ways to apply this mindset in everyday life:
1. Start a Daily Gratitude Ritual
At the end of each day, write down three things you're genuinely grateful for. These don't have to be extraordinary — even a hot cup of coffee, a kind text, or a peaceful moment count. Over time, you'll see how this daily practice nurtures a sense of happiness that isn't dependent on external events. Gratitude trains your attention toward the good.
2. Pause and Appreciate During Difficult Moments
Life inevitably has stressful, painful phases. When things feel tough, pause and try to identify even a single thing you can appreciate — maybe a supportive friend, the resilience you're building, or simple comforts like sunshine on your face. This doesn't erase struggle, but it brings a balancing perspective, echoing the heart of the David Steindl-Rast quote about happiness.
3. Practice Thankfulness in Relationships
When interacting with others, make an effort to express your gratitude openly. Tell your family, friends, or colleagues what you appreciate about them. Regularly acknowledging the good in others not only strengthens bonds but also cultivates your inner sense of joy. It's a two-way gift.
4. Shift Focus When Comparing Yourself
It's easy to get caught in comparison — wanting what others have, or judging yourself harshly. In those moments, gently redirect your thoughts toward all that supports and sustains you. For example, instead of dwelling on a missed opportunity, focus on skills you are developing or kindnesses you've received. This subtle shift helps turn envy into satisfaction.
5. Transform Routine into Thankful Awareness
Often, we overlook daily routines: driving to work, making meals, or everyday chores. Try spotting small moments or objects of appreciation during these times. It could be the reliability of your car, the taste of fresh fruit, or quiet time to think. By weaving gratitude into ordinary routines, happiness emerges day by day.
These steps make gratitude a living habit, not just an occasional feeling. By engaging with this practice, you embody the wisdom of Steindl-Rast's words — creating a happiness that is steady, grounded, and accessible.
✨ The Motivation Message
You have the power to create joy in your own life, every single day! When you pause to notice the gifts in front of you, your perspective transforms. It doesn't matter if the gifts seem big or small — what matters is that you see them, feel them, and let them fill your heart. The real magic is that happiness follows gratefulness, not the other way around.
If you start your morning or end your night searching for just one thing to be thankful for, you'll soon discover more. The world doesn't have to be perfect for you to be happy. Your happiness grows from the appreciation that lives inside you! 🌱
You are stronger than your frustrations and bigger than your stresses. As you practice gratitude, watch how it changes your day and lifts those around you. Take this as your invitation: try it now, even for a week, and see what opens up. We believe in your ability to choose gratefulness — and reap the happiness it creates! 🌟
About David Steindl-Rast
David Steindl-Rast, who was born in 1926, is a Benedictine monk, interfaith scholar, and author widely recognized for his teachings on gratitude and mindfulness. Born in Vienna, Austria, Steindl-Rast entered monastic life after studying art, anthropology, and psychology. His experiences through turbulent times in history shaped his deep appreciation for life's simple moments and a strong emphasis on spiritual gratitude.
Throughout his life, Steindl-Rast has spoken and written on how conscious thankfulness can transform our relationships, outlook, and communities. He cofounded A Network for Grateful Living, devoted to sharing the practice of grateful awareness. His message — found in this famous quote — encourages people to make gratitude a daily act, not a rare attitude linked to perfect circumstances. For Steindl-Rast, gratefulness is the foundation for a peaceful, joyful existence, accessible to everyone regardless of beliefs or background. This perspective continues to inspire those seeking a more meaningful, hope-filled approach to life.
