10 Turkey Day Questions for Deeper Connection

While the idea of Thanksgiving is about connection and gratitude, we all know it can sometimes turn into a series of polite, surface-level conversations or, worse yet, rude, judgmental debates.

For me, that’s one of the most draining parts of any gathering: moments that lack true meaning and authentic connection.

I’m not one for showing up just because I’m “supposed to.” In fact, I’m intentionally estranged from 95% of my blood relatives because of their toxic energy.

My time is my most precious resource, and I’ve learned how to say “no” to obligatory gatherings in favor of investing time where I feel genuinely loved and appreciated.

And here’s a fun fact—our data from our Core Values Quiz, taken by over 5,000 people globally, reflects this empowered shift.

Family Security is one of the top four most-selected core values, showing how deeply people value stability and meaningful connections in their personal lives.

At the same time, Respect for Tradition is the second most-selected value that "Does NOT resonate", with nearly half of participants rejecting it as a core driver.

This speaks volumes about how our world is evolving. While people still deeply value Family Security, they’re also stepping away from outdated traditions that no longer align with their authentic selves. It’s not about rejecting family—it’s about redefining what family means and creating connections that reflect your values, not societal expectations.

Imagine how powerful our world would be if we all embraced this shift—letting go of "supposed to" and showing up only where we feel we “get to” and ‘want to.”

What if we all prioritized gatherings that left us feeling fulfilled, valued, and seen for who we really are?

But what about those “in-between” moments? The ones where you want to be there, but part of you dreads the predictable, polite questions like "How was traffic getting here?" or “How about this weather?”

These moments don’t leave much room for connection. And I’ve realized the solution isn’t about avoiding these gatherings but rather bringing in more intention and meaning.

This Thanksgiving, let’s try a little experiment: ask questions that are genuinely meaningful and invite deeper conversation with no attachment to the end result. Just get curious and see what’s possible.

Questions can open the door to gratitude and give you a glimpse into the moments that have shaped each other’s lives. Below, I’m sharing 10 questions to try out, ones that have the potential to spark conversations that leave everyone feeling a bit more connected and a lot more grateful.

10 Questions for a More Meaningful Thanksgiving and Holiday Season ??

1. ?? What are you most thankful for this year? This classic, simple question allows people to reflect on the positives, even in the smallest moments.
2. ?? What do you appreciate from your upbringing, and how does it serve you today? Encourage stories of past happiness that continue to impact their life now.
3. ?? How has your life changed over the past year? What are you grateful for in those changes? This helps people see and share their growth journey, even if it’s in subtle ways.
4. ?? Who has made a positive impact on your life recently? A lovely way to recognize the people who’ve helped us become who we are.
5. ?? What’s something you’re proud of right now? So often, we don’t get a chance to celebrate our wins. Here’s the perfect opportunity!
6. ?? What’s a lesson you’ve learned this year that you’re thankful for? Even challenges can become something we’re grateful for in time.
7. ? What’s the best memory you made this year? Help everyone remember the joy and laughter they’ve experienced.
8. ?? If you could give thanks for something unexpected, what would it be? Sometimes, it’s the surprising things that bring the most growth.
9. ?? How have you surprised yourself this year? An invitation to reflect on personal growth that others may not know about.
10. ?? What do you appreciate most about the people gathered here? Let’s end with a question that brings the focus back to the present and the people around us.\

Let’s Make Thanksgiving Meaningful ??

Imagine if you could turn even just one or two of these questions into a way to create a warm, intentional atmosphere around the table. It’s about moving from small talk to “big talk,” as I like to call it.

By inviting deeper conversation, you’re creating a space where people feel seen and appreciated for more than just the usual polite questions.

When you set the intention to bring meaning to these gatherings, you can transform your relationships and bring more gratitude into your lives and the lives of those around you.

So, as you prepare for the holidays, I hope you’ll try a few of these questions. Let them spark a connection, a story, a laugh, or even a tear. And if you’ve got a favorite question to add that you think would fit perfectly here, I’d love to hear it!

Wishing you a holiday filled with warmth, connection, and meaningful moments.

P.S.?

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