GRATITUDE

Gratitude: the state of being grateful.

Thanksgiving, it's hurriedly tidying up before the guests arrive, it's red wine in stemmed glasses, and the smell of comfort food wafting through the air. It's family, and friends that feel like family.

Besides eating and drinking to our hearts content, this holiday really gives us that push to think about what and who we are grateful for, and how we can express our gratitude in some way (and not just on Thanksgiving, but everyday).

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↠ Expressing Gratitude

Write.

Do a journal entry, make a list, fill the page with whatever it is you're grateful for. Finding a place to start can be tough, so here are some prompts to get you started:

• look inward (the qualities you possess; characteristics and traits)

• look outward (friends, family, pets, tangible items)

• think 'small', what happened today that made you happy?

• think 'big', what's something invaluable you have learned in this lifetime?

Writing down what you're grateful for can make you realize that the good in your life outweighs the bad, and this can instantly enhance your mood. Because of this I've made myself a Gratitude Journal, this is where I jot down in point form what I'm grateful for. Whenever I flip through the pages I can't help but smile because they're filled with moments that have brought me joy.

Speak.

Tell someone how you feel about them, let them know they're appreciated. It could be a family member, friend, co-worker, whoever it may be, simply show your gratitude. Reach out, e-mail, call, text, just talk to them. Give thanks to them, the way they are, the way they put a smile on your face, the way they make your heart feel a little more full.

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I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving, and continue to reflect and thank not only the people in your life, but yourself and wherever you may be in your journey.