Think About That - Giving Thanks

We intentionally give thanks each year on one specific day, Thanksgiving. Celebrations include an indulgent amount of food, football, family, parades, and turkey trots. Employees in offices and some trades enjoy a long four-day weekend. For many in the U.S., though, this specific day is emotionally charged and comes with some of the hardest work in the entire year. Travel, hospitality, restaurants, and gas stations are all open for business and experience significant customer volume. Much to be grateful for, however, it makes us think: why are we focusing on being thankful just one day? If we create a standard of gratitude in daily life, we bring more positivity into all our interactions.

Gratitude Matters

Research shows that gratitude is not just a fleeting emotional state but a powerful mindset with long-term benefits. Studies have demonstrated that practicing gratitude daily can lead to better mental health, improved physical health, stronger relationships, and greater resilience. Psychologists Robert Emmons and Michael McCullough found in their studies that people who kept gratitude journals experienced fewer physical complaints, more optimism, and greater happiness. Gratitude rewires the brain, strengthening neural pathways associated with positivity and reducing stress and anxiety levels.

Yet, for many, the cultural emphasis on gratitude during Thanksgiving can feel disingenuous or even isolating, particularly for those who face family conflict, grief, or economic hardships. This highlights the need for integrating gratitude into our everyday lives in more authentic and sustainable ways, rather than concentrating it into a single holiday.

Daily Practices to Cultivate Gratitude

1.???? Gratitude Journaling - One of the simplest and most effective ways to foster gratitude is to maintain a gratitude journal. Each day, write down three to five things for which we are grateful. These can be big or small: a fulfilling conversation, a warm meal, or simply a moment of quiet. Over time, this practice shifts our focus toward positivity and helps us notice things we might otherwise take for granted.

2.???? Mindfulness and Reflection - Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help anchor gratitude in the present moment. Reflect on moments of joy or challenges that taught us valuable lessons. By appreciating our journey, even the struggles, we build a deeper sense of gratitude for life as a whole.

3.???? Gratitude Letters - Take the time to write letters of gratitude to people who have made a difference in our life. These could be friends, family members, mentors, or colleagues. Expressing our appreciation not only strengthens our relationships but also reinforces our own sense of connection and thankfulness.

4.???? Start the Day with Gratitude - Before diving into daily tasks, spend a few moments thinking about what we’re thankful for. Starting our day with gratitude sets a positive tone and reminds us of the abundance in our life. Some people find that saying their gratitude out loud or sharing it with a loved one amplifies its impact.

5.???? Acts of Kindness - Gratitude can also be practiced through actions. Volunteering, supporting a cause, or simply helping a neighbor cultivates a spirit of thankfulness by fostering community and shared humanity. Generosity creates a cycle of positivity, as both giving and receiving strengthen feelings of connection and appreciation.

Beyond Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving often encourages public displays of gratitude that might feel performative or superficial. Social media posts, for instance, can be less about genuine appreciation and more about optics. To move beyond these surface-level expressions, we can adopt consistent, everyday practices that integrate gratitude into our personal and professional lives.

In the workplace, leaders can foster gratitude by recognizing employees' contributions regularly. Studies from organizations like Gallup show that employees who feel appreciated are more engaged, productive, and satisfied with their jobs. A simple “thank you” can create a ripple effect, enhancing corporate culture and improving team morale.

On a personal level, gratitude can be especially powerful during challenging times. Psychologist Dr. Martin Seligman, known for his work on positive psychology, highlights how finding things to be grateful for (even in adversity) can transform our perspective. By focusing on what remains positive or stable, rather than dwelling solely on loss or difficulty, we can build resilience.

A Lifelong Practice

Building a mindset of gratitude is not about ignoring life’s difficulties or pretending to be happy when we’re not. It’s about choosing to focus on the good, however small, amidst the complexities of life. Gratitude is a practice, not a destination, and it requires ongoing effort and intention.

By integrating gratitude into our daily lives, we can transform not just how we feel, but how we relate to others and the world around us. Gratitude, practiced consistently, has the power to uplift us, deepen our relationships, and help us navigate life’s challenges with grace and perspective.

So, Think About That – What small step can we take today to make gratitude a part of our everyday lives? What will we notice tomorrow that we might have overlooked today? How can we extend our thankfulness to others every day of the year?