In the hustle and bustle of daily life (especially during Christmas prep), it’s easy to be focused on the to-do list or try to anticipate the challenges ahead. But in the midst of it all, there’s a quiet, powerful practice that can shift our perspective and bring more peace to our days: gratitude.
I posted a little bit about this on my Instagram Feed this past week but if there is a lesson in life that I keep learning over and over, it's this one and I can't help but shout it from the rooftops when I'm reminded of it.
Gratitude changes things. It's most impactful when we notice it in the simple, everyday occurrences that often go unnoticed. These small, quiet blessings form the fabric of our lives. (haha, see what I did there?)
There is always, always, always something to be grateful for. Reminding ourselves of this starts with awareness. Take a moment right now to pause and look around. What do you see, hear, or feel that brings you comfort or joy? There is already so much beauty that’s already present in your life.
A fun way to remind myself of the small things that I'm grateful for is to carry a little counter/clicker in my pocket (you know, like the bus driver used to have when you were a kid to count the kids as they got on the bus?). When I think of something that I'm grateful for, I give myself a click. It's fun (don't judge) and I'm always shocked at how quickly that number adds up.
Practicing gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring life’s difficulties. It’s about finding light even when the path feels dim. When we actively seek out reasons to be grateful, we’re training our minds to notice the good, which in turn boosts our mood, strengthens relationships, and improves overall well-being. It's a really quick way to Create Some Sunshine!
As you move through your day, challenge yourself to notice one small thing to be grateful for each hour. It’s a practice that grows stronger with time, like sewing together patches of fabric to create a quilt. Each moment of gratitude becomes a part of something larger—a beautiful, comforting reminder that even in the ordinary, there is extraordinary grace.
Take a moment today to breathe it in. Notice it. Name it. And let it fill your heart with warmth. You've got this!