Today, instead of just saying what we’re thankful for, I want to offer a few creative, soul-filling ways to actually practice thankfulness. No journaling required. No pressure. Just small shifts that can open your heart - even in the middle of the holiday hustle.
- Tell Someone Why You’re Grateful for Them, Not Just That You Are
Don’t just say “I’m thankful for you.”
Tell them why. Be specific. Go beyond the surface.
➡️ “I’m thankful for you because you always show up for me - even when I don’t ask.”
➡️ “I’m thankful for how you make people feel safe when they’re around you.”
➡️ “I’m thankful for your laughter - it’s a gift in every room.”
💡 Text it. Say it at the table. Leave a sticky note on their coffee mug. It doesn’t have to be formal - just real.
- Pause and Name What You Have Now… That You Once Wished For
This one is powerful.
We spend so much time striving, setting goals, looking ahead -which is good! But don’t forget to pause and acknowledge the things in your life today that were once just a hope, a prayer, or a whispered “someday.”
➡️ That strong, healthy body you’ve worked for.
➡️ The peace you feel more often now.
➡️ The messy, beautiful family moments you wouldn’t trade.
➡️ The second act you never thought you’d get to live.
Gratitude lives in perspective. Slow down and see how far you’ve come.
- Celebrate Yourself, Too
Yes, others deserve our gratitude - but so do you.
➡️ You’ve held a lot this year.
➡️ You’ve shown up when it was easier to shut down.
➡️ You’ve grown, stretched, and kept going when no one was clapping.
Take a moment this Thanksgiving to thank yourself.
Literally say: “Thank you, [Your Name], for not giving up.”
- Create a Gratitude Snapshot
If journaling isn’t your thing, try this:
Pull out your phone and take 3 photos of things that make you feel grateful today.
Not posed or polished - just real.
☕ Your quiet morning coffee.
🧤 Your cozy blanket.
👵 Your sister’s laugh, or your grandkids’ mess on the floor.
Save them in a special album called “This Is Enough.”
Look back when you feel like you’re falling behind.
Final Thought:
Gratitude isn’t just a feeling.
It’s a practice.
It’s a way of seeing the world - one imperfect, beautiful moment at a time.
So today, let go of the idea that everything has to be perfect to be meaningful.
Let the turkey be dry. Let the house be loud. Let the moments be real.
And most of all, let yourself feel the joy of simply being here.
Happy Thanksgiving, friend. You are deeply loved - and endlessly worthy of good things.
