Beyond the Leftovers: Cultivating Gratitude All Year Long

As we polish off the last of the turkey and pecan pie and return home from Thanksgiving gatherings, it's easy to let the spirit of gratitude slip away. But what if we could hold onto that deep sense of appreciation, not just during the holidays, but for every day of the year?

As I reflected on seven years of conversations on my podcast, She Said/She Said, I noticed something interesting about the many incredible women I've interviewed over the years: the most successful and influential among them radiate gratitude. It's a quality that not only transforms their own lives but also uplifts those around them.

Gratitude isn't just a warm and fuzzy feeling; it's a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. It fosters trust, builds strong relationships, and creates a positive and motivating environment. And the best part? It's a gift that keeps on giving. When you express gratitude, you inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of joy and connection.

But how can we cultivate gratitude beyond the Thanksgiving table and make it a lasting practice in our lives? Here are four simple yet powerful tools that I’ve fine-tuned over the years — several with input from amazing guests on She Said/She Said Podcast:?

1. Keep a Gratitude Journal

Start each day by jotting down at least three things you're grateful for. My list often starts with a good cup of coffee ??. This simple act of listing a few things you are grateful for each day helps shift your focus to the abundance in your life, even amidst challenges.

Bonus tip: Even when navigating difficulties and uncertainty, using this practice to focus on those things that you are grateful for — even amidst the chaos —- can help shift your perspective and foster greater resilience.?

2. Share Your Gratitude with Others

Take a moment to think about the people who have enriched your life. You might even think about the people you have encountered in the past week or month.? Reach out to them with a heartfelt message of thanks. Expressing gratitude to colleagues, friends, and loved ones strengthens bonds and fosters a culture of appreciation.

Remember: Specificity is key! Instead of a simple "thank you," try something like, "I was so grateful for your support during that challenging project. Your encouragement meant the world to me." Or, “I so appreciated that you knew just what to say. You have a gift, my friend, I so appreciate having you in my life.”

3. Find Gratitude in Challenges

This is where a growth mindset comes into play. Reflect on past challenges and identify what you learned from them. Even in difficult situations, there are valuable lessons and opportunities for growth. Embracing this perspective can foster a sense of gratitude for those experiences.

4. Practice Gratitude for What You Don't Have

This might sound counterintuitive but consider expressing gratitude for the absence of struggles in your life. Be thankful for your health, your safety, and the basic necessities that many others lack. This practice can foster a deeper appreciation for the blessings in your life.

PLUS! Gratitude as an Antidote to Stress

As we navigate the busy chaos of daily life, gratitude can be an anchor, reminding us of what truly matters. It allows us to savor special moments, lock in core memories, connect with loved ones, and appreciate the abundance in our lives.

Building these practices into our days can help us shift our perspective and maintain a more positive and consistent equilibrium even when things go sideways. Plus, they help us keep that warm feeling of gratitude long past the last of the pecan pie ?? (yet another thing I’m thankful for)!?

What are your favorite gratitude practices? Please share your thoughts with me in the comments. I’d love to hear!?

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours! Wishing you much joy, warmth, and laughter (as well as an abundance of gratitude) as you lock in core memories with those dear to you.?

#gratitude #thanksgiving #mindset