Thoughts on Gratitude, Featuring Tamsyn

What is gratitude?

Often during this time of year, we are thinking about new things we want or need. We become focused on external items, that we believe will make our life better. However, we forget to take a step back and give gratitude to all the things we already have.

Practicing Gratitude gives me the opportunity to reflect on the blessings I already have in many different areas of my life. For me, giving gratitude is simply taking a step back and acknowledging all that there is to be thankful for in your life. I begin by simply noticing what I appreciate in that moment. I pay attention to those things, allowing me to absorb the gratitude. Then, I express it. This can be done by saying it to myself, through prayer, writing it down or verbally telling someone.

Giving gratitude is important to me as it helps me enjoy the good in my past, present and future. Giving thanks helps my mood shift and gives me a more positive outlook on my day. Practicing gratitude is proven to enhance your well-being and increase both optimism & happiness.

Today, I am thankful for a restful thanksgiving break where I got to spend time with my family. I am thankful for my job at Vogel Alcove. I am thankful for my friends and family who encourage and support me. I thankful for my Hulu subscription that allowed me to binge watch a few shows over the break. I am thankful for cooler weather.

Gratitude can easily be implemented into your daily life, whether that be a time of reflection when you wake up or before you go to bed. Also, as a family, a great time to reflect on gratitude is during dinner when everyone is sitting around a table. Giving thanks with other people, allows relationships to strengthen and new connections to be formed.