Gratitude Conversation Starters

I remember the days when my kids would share details about their day with me and talk non-stop. Now that they are teenagers, those carefree exchanges are fewer and further apart; it is harder to connect. I miss the free-flowing conversations I had with my kids when they were younger. For me, the solution was to cultivate space for meaningful conversations and curate experiences when we have time to be together. Since gratitude is my go-to in all situations, I incorporated gratitude into our interactions.?

Below are some ideas for conversation starters and resources to strengthen connection through gratitude. I use them at the dinner table as a way to learn more about each other and focus on the good in each day.

Gratitude Cube

• A highlight from today is…
• I am grateful for…
• Someone that made me smile this week is…

The Grateful Deck

• What excites you about life right now?
• If you could do anything in the next year, what would you do?

The Gratitude Challenge

• The Simple (Little) Things Challenge: What is something simple or small that has made, or is making a difference in your life? Pause and express gratitude for it.
• The Compliment Challenge: Think of a time when someone gave you a compliment that made you smile or brightened your day. Express gratitude for them and if possible, to them.

General Conversation Starters:

• What is something you are looking forward to this week? This month? This year?
• Who or what inspired you this week?
• What is something you are proud to have accomplished this week?

Conversations keep us connected and help reduce feelings of isolation and negativity. Using gratitude in your prompts opens up a safe space for everyone to share.?The more you have these conversations, the easier it becomes. Have you made an effort to have more meaningful conversations with your family or team? How do you foster purposeful conversations?