It's that time of year again when we turn our attention briefly to what we're thankful for. We take a few moments, perhaps before an indulgent meal, to reflect on what we're grateful for. Maybe it's a roof over our head, running water, good food, friends, and family. Maybe it's dodging a bullet, remembering a moment of great relief from the past year, the lump that wasn't cancer, the loved one spared, or the job kept in the midst of layoffs. Maybe it's the simple pleasures - the good parking space, the warm tea or coffee, the smile from a stranger that brightened your day. When we stop to look and think about it, most of us have plenty to be thankful for.
I love Thanksgiving, but gratitude shouldn't be reserved for the last Thursday in November. If we really want to be happy, we need to give thanks every day. Gratitude journaling can help shift our perspective. And speaking our gratitude to our loved ones can help us appreciate them more. If you aren't already journaling what you're thankful for, today is the perfect day to start. Write down three things you're grateful for every day for a week, and see if you feel happier. If not, increase your number to six things you're grateful for. Look for the positive moments and you'll start to see the world a new way. Little by little gratitude will become a natural part of your life.
