Finding Thankfulness: Simple Ways to Boost Your Well-being This Month

Here in the Midwest, as the air turns crisp, farmers wind down their harvest, and the leaves settle into their final golden hues, November is a time to pause and reflect. The 30 days before the rush of the year’s end and anticipation of the holidays, November is a reminder to slow down and reflect. A time to find gratitude in the middle of life’s noise.

The Connection Between Gratitude and Mental Health

Practicing thankfulness is a proven way to support emotional well-being. Studies show gratitude can decrease stress, decrease depression and promote a sense of calm. When a person intentionally focuses on what is good, we train our minds to notice the good rather than dwell on the bad.    

Simple Ways to Practice Thankfulness

Enjoy the Little Things

When enjoying a beautiful harvest sunset or enjoying a cozy moment at home with family, take a deep breath and truly enjoy it. Gratitude often hides in ordinary situations.

Express Gratitude Aloud

Tell someone you appreciate them. A warm and heartfelt ‘Thank You’ or message strengthens relationships and spreads your positivity to others.

Start a ‘3 Things’ Journal

Once a day jot down three things you are thankful for. It can be as simple as laughter with a coworker, a warm mug of coffee, a kind email. Over time, these small acknowledgements add up and shift your mindset to positivity.

Practice Self-Gratitude

It is easy to thank others, but be sure to remember to thank yourself. Recognize and reflect on your efforts, growth and accomplishments through the challenges you have faced this year. 

A Time to Reflect and Renew 

As we move through November, we should use gratitude as a grounding practice. Gratitude reminds us despite pain and struggle and difficult times, there are reasons to hope and moments worth celebrating. Gratitude does not erase the hard moments, it helps us carry the hardships with grace.

So, this November take time to breathe, reflect and give thanks. In such, do not just give thanks for what you have and do for yourself and others, but also for who you are becoming.