Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday, hands down.  Not because of pilgrims or turkey (though I do get down with some mashed potatoes and pie!)  But, because I adore gathering with my family. We laugh, share stories, do a big puzzle (a newer tradition that some are better at than others), and gluttonously stuff our faces. We have it at our house, and I love seeing my home bursting full and smelling awesome.

Sometimes I look at the abundance before me and I feel guilty. Ever feel that way? I know how fortunate my life is.  Much of that abundance I’ve created, and some of it was the gift of the life I was born into. However, guilt is an amazing energy drain.  Instead, I choose gratitude.  Deep, real, full gratitude.   When I feel grateful, I can share and contribute freely in the world.

So, today’s blog is simple.   Give thanks.  It’s way easier to blame and complain.  We human beings are exceedingly good at the blame and complain game sometimes.  Instead, call forth gratitude.  Really. Take the time to recognize the wealth in your life.  I don’t mean money (though that can be part of it, for sure).  I mean health, love, food, shelter, sunshine. Whatever wealth means to you.

Here are some tips to get on the love train of thanks.

1.  Write a gratitude list.  Don’t just think about it.  Actually write it down.  Writing is a powerful thing (there’s research on this!), and brings those thankful bits to life.  (You can see mine in the picture.  It doesn’t have to be fancy, just honest.)

2.  Share your list with someone.  My husband and I spent about 5 minutes doing this together, and it was awesome. Trust me.  Gratitude really does bring joy.

3.  Thank someone (or many people!  Don’t be stingy!)  Thank them for something little, or something big.  For emptying the dishwasher, or supporting you in a difficult time.

I know holidays can be stressful.  I know our lives aren’t always going exactly as we’ve planned.  I know hardships happen (I miss my dad big time this time of year!).  I’ve been there.  Truly, I have.  And, yet, I know that when we choose to be grateful, to notice what is good in our lives, we are more joyful and more powerful.  

So, try the tips above.  I promise it will be worth it.  Then, tell us what you’re grateful for in the comments below.  The more thanks we put out there, the more joy comes back to us.

As always, thank you for inviting me into your inbox each week. You are badass and brilliant. You are change agents.  The world needs you.

Thank you.  Thank you.  Thank you.

xo

Sage

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