How Gratitude Shapes Our Vision: A Thanksgiving Reflection

Today, as we gather in Canada to celebrate Thanksgiving, let’s pause to reflect on our vision of the world and our own current realities. The pressures we face today—from ongoing conflicts to natural disasters—reach beyond borders, affecting countless lives.

When we witness these hardships, we have an opportunity to adjust our vision and find our place within this vast universe. The rapid pace of change often challenges our ability to make thoughtful decisions and maintain our well-being. These external factors influence how we work, how our leaders lead, and how we connect with those around us.

I had the privilege of spending this Thanksgiving weekend with my family and extended relatives. We are blessed as a family, and for that, I am grateful. I’m especially thankful for my husband’s recuperation to full health and that my family and I could all be together, in good health, sharing our home with others who are far from their own families. Moments like these remind me of the importance of gratitude as we strive to hold a positive vision for the future.

While it’s easy to focus on what’s missing or imperfect, Thanksgiving reminds us to reconnect with gratitude. Living in a country that is not at war, with access to social support and universal healthcare, is a privilege worth acknowledging. Though our systems may have flaws, they offer stability and peace, both of which are invaluable.

To build a resilient vision, we need to embrace gratitude and recognize the abundance present in our lives. By connecting deeply with our personal vision—of ourselves, our communities, and our aspirations—we cultivate appreciation and groundedness. This mindset allows us to face the world’s complexities with resilience day by day.

As we give thanks for our families, communities, and the blessings we enjoy, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on your own vision. Perhaps write down three things you’re grateful for, or consider setting a personal intention for the week ahead. These small acts can shift our mindset, helping us nurture our well-being even amidst uncertainty.

Finally, let’s remember the importance of community. Just as Thanksgiving calls us to gather and give thanks, it also reminds us of our shared humanity. Whether in our workplaces or personal lives, a sense of gratitude and shared vision can strengthen our bonds, creating a ripple effect that nourishes our collective well-being.

Happy Thanksgiving, Canada, and to all those who choose to give thanks for what we have in this beautiful country. Let’s give thanks for our vision, our loved ones, and the abundance that surrounds us.

Joyce Odidison, MA. MCC. CTDP.

Joyce Odidison, a keynote speaker, thought leader, and global leader on well-being. Pioneer of the Wellness Improvement System? and the Well-being Intelligence Curriculum?, a four-step process to identify and reduce hidden risks impacting psychological safety, performance, and well-being. With 27 years as a Conflict Analyst, Corporate Trainer, University Lecturer, and Master Certified Coach, she guides clients from high-stress conflicts to interpersonal wellness. As President and CEO of Interpersonal Wellness Services Inc., Joyce developed the first ICF-approved Wellness Coach Training program, the Global Workplace Wellness Summit, and the Wellness Competency Academy. She provides targeted well-being solutions for EAPs, HR departments, health plans, workplace wellness programs, healthcare professionals, coaches, consultants, and families, revolutionizing organizational well-being.