In a season of thanks and giving, here are 10 ways you can practice gratitude.
1. Keep a Gratitude Journal - Each evening before bed, write down something you were grateful for today, something you're looking forward to this week, and someone you're thankful for and why.
2. Go For a Walk - Take in all the nature that surrounds you. What can you hear, see, smell?
3. Send a Hand-Written Note to Someone You Love - Life is busy and we don't take enough time to show the people we care about just how much they mean to us (somewhere other than social media). Pick up a cute card (or make one) and send snail-mail.
4. Write a Review - Is there a company, product, or service that you adore? Help their business by writing an online review somewhere like Yelp, Google, Facebook, etc.
5. Say It Out Loud - Speak kindly to yourself... I am strong. I am worthy. I am loved. I am kind. I am beautiful. I am deserving. I am smart. I am wonderfully made!
6. Give Back - Making an impact in your local community helps others, and makes you feel good in return. Research & sign up to volunteer to benefit your neighborhood in some way.
7. Plan a Date - Whether you're married, separated, divorced, widowed, or just in need of some girl time/reconnecting with your partner, plan an outing with your best friend or better half. Plan something to remind them why they are so special to you.
8. Pay it Forward - Do something nice for someone in need. Buy a stranger their coffee order, donate clothing to a shelter, purchase supplies for a foster family, etc. Make someone's day and make yourself feel good.
9. Reframe Negativity - Life is stressful; there's no doubt that negative thoughts can take over our minds when things are tough. Today, when you have a negative thought, transform them into positive ones. If you experience a negative event, turn it into a more positive experience.
10. Forgive - No one is perfect. We all go and grow through things that affect the way we treat others. If you're holding onto resentment, free yourself of the hate, fear, and disappointment. Write down what and who has wronged you, and pledge to move on. You deserve it. What did you learn from their wrongdoings? How can you move forward?