30 Days of Giving Thanks: Cultivate a grateful mindset
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Charmaine J Forde: “Don’t wait until the fourth Thursday in November, to sit with family and friends to give thanks. Make every day a day of Thanksgiving.”
When many people think of November, they think of the Thanksgiving holiday, a day that reminds us to slow down, enjoy a meal (and leftovers) with family & friends, while expressing thanks for the people and things that enrich our lives. But gratitude doesn’t have to be confined to a specific day or occasion. With a bit of daily practice, you can bring an abundance of joy into your own life, while positively impacting the lives of those around you in the process.
Here are a few suggestions for cultivating an attitude of gratitude each day:
- Practice mindfulness: Take a moment each day to pause and fully experience your surroundings. Pay attention to the beauty of nature, the taste of your food, or the warmth of a hug. Being present and fully engaged in the moment helps you notice and appreciate all the little things that add up to big things.
- Volunteer or donate: Giving back to others reminds us of the privileges and blessings we have. Consider getting involved in a local community organization, donating to a charity, or simply helping someone in need. These acts of kindness often bring immense feelings of well-being to both the giver and the recipient.
- Start a gratitude jar: Find a jar and some small pieces of paper. Throughout the month, write down things you are thankful for and put them into the jar. At the end of November, or whenever you feel like it, take time to read through the notes and reflect on all the good things in your life.
Remember to spend a little time and intention each day cultivating a grateful mindset. This outlook carries with it a whole host of mental, physical and spiritual benefits that will have you giving thanks throughout the month of November and beyond!
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