Giving Thanks
Adam Fu "Give Thanks" mural for Rag & Bone NYC storefront. Photo by @slimjim72
Thanksgiving is the time of the year when we gather together with friends and family over the delicious meals and give thanks to each other and to the things in life.
It is, indeed, a beautiful tradition. But what if we take a moment each day to think of the things we are grateful for? No matter how troubled we feel, we can always find something to be thankful for.
Try these ideas:
Start a gratitude journal. Make a commitment to write down at least once a week 3 things you are grateful for. Nature. People. Home. Small comforts like a running clean water in your house, a warm bed or a meal. Be as specific as possible. Instead of writing down a general "I'm grateful for my co-workers", go in more specific details: "I'm grateful for my co-workers to bring me a soup on Tuesday because I was sick." It's amazing what you notice when you focus on feeling grateful and more likely that you will notice good things as they happen.
Practice gratitude rituals. For example, pausing in gratitude before eating doesn't have to be religious. It's a simple habit that helps us notice and appreciate the food on the table.
Show your gratitude to the people around you. Give the compliment, send the text message, express gratefulness for the small things they do for you.
Take the time to notice and identify the small everyday details of your life and notice the good things you might sometimes take for granted. It can bring a positive attitude throughout the day and have a great impact on our happiness.
May you have a wonderful time this Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving Day!
