For a couple years I was kind of just floating through life. I was unhappy. I was lazy. I was unhealthy. I had no idea what I was doing or what I wanted to do. I was ungrateful. I was being given an opportunity everyday to live and I was taking it for granted.  This past year I have been making a conscious effort to not only be a better version of myself, but to be grateful everyday, because everyday is not guaranteed.

I have found the things that I truly love to do and I’m not sitting back and dreaming about maybe doing them someday, I’m making strides to actually accomplish these dreams. I reconnected with my faith and I am able to see a clearer path that was already paved for me. I’m overall a healthier human being (that still treats herself to a few donuts every now and then). I am grateful for where I was a year or two ago because it allowed me to get to the place I’m at now. I know that Thanksgiving is the time for everyone to share what they are grateful for, but I want to share with you some tips on how to be grateful not just during the holidays, but every day.

How to be Grateful Everyday

-Start simple and leave a notepad by your nightstand. Every night or morning list out 3 things that happened that day or the day before that you are grateful for. These don’t have to be big or profound things. It can be as simple as getting the last donut at the bakery that morning or that you didn’t get a parking ticket when you should have. Helpful hint: don’t get in the habit of listing things near you like a roof over your head, try and really think back on your day and find the good.

-Don’t forget about the negatives. Just because you are trying to be more positive and express gratitude doesn’t mean bad things can’t happen to you! In fact, it’s good to reflect on those negatives because chances are they will help you to be more grateful for your current state.

-Keep a print out on your mirror or fridge and look at it every day. These visual reminders can help to trigger gratitude!

-Do something for others daily. Try your best to get out there and volunteer. Giving your time and energy to those that need it is beneficial for not just you, but whoever you are helping. When you are giving to others you become more grateful than when you are constantly receiving. If you feel like you don’t have time to volunteer everyday, don’t worry, it can be as simple as treating a friend to coffee or holding the door open for someone. For smaller scale stuff look at my post One Good Deed a Day for some inspiration. If you’re looking for something on a larger scale check out Tirzah International, they are doing a lot to support women all over the world and there is so much you can do to help!

If you start implementing these tips into your life, I promise you will look at life a little differently. Everyday we wake up is nothing short of a miracle so why wouldn’t we treat it like one and why wouldn’t we be grateful for it? I am grateful for today to be able to spend it will my loved ones and I am grateful for all of you and your support! I hope you all have a wonderful thanksgiving and you are able to express gratitude everyday. Now I’m off to eat lot’s of turkey and taters and I’m looking back on these pictures feeling super grateful because I won’t be able to fit into these pants again after today!

Photography by: Jenna Bechtholt

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