Gratitude: Why It’s a Game Changer
The idea of gratitude can feel a bit cliché, especially when life feels overwhelming. But if there’s one lesson I’ve learned, it’s that gratitude has the power to transform even the darkest seasons of our lives into something brighter.
When I was going through a difficult divorce and stepping into the role of a full-time single mom, I often felt like I was drowning. The weight of responsibility, heartache, and uncertainty was immense. There were nights I’d lie awake, wondering how I would navigate it all.
In the midst of that storm, I stumbled upon something that became my anchor: gratitude. My daughter and I started a simple practice at dinner each night—we’d take turns saying one thing we were grateful for. Some days, it was something small, like a warm meal or a hug from a friend. Other days, it was something bigger, like making it through the day in one piece.
This nightly ritual didn’t magically erase the challenges we were facing, but it did change how we experienced them. Even on the hardest days, there was something good, something steady to hold onto. That gratitude practice became a lifeline, and years later, it’s still something we share. Every night, we pause and reflect on what’s good in our lives, no matter what else is going on.
Why Gratitude Matters
Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good habit—it’s a mindset that shapes how we see the world and our place in it. Research has shown that practicing gratitude can improve mental health, enhance relationships, and even boost physical well-being. Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have, cultivating a sense of abundance and resilience.
When we intentionally practice gratitude, we train our brains to notice the positives, even amidst challenges. This doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties but instead finding strength in the good that coexists with the hard.
Tips to Build a Gratitude Practice
Whether you’re new to gratitude or looking to deepen your practice, here are some ideas to get started:
Practicing Gratitude on Your Own
Keep a Gratitude Journal
Write down three things you’re grateful for each day. They don’t have to be grand—small joys like a cup of coffee or a kind word from a stranger can be just as meaningful.Start Your Day with Gratitude
Begin each morning by reflecting on something you’re looking forward to or thankful for. It sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.Pause and Reflect During Tough Moments
When challenges arise, take a moment to find something good amidst the difficulty. It could be a lesson learned, a person who supported you, or simply the fact that you’re still standing.
Sharing Gratitude with Others
Daily Gratitude Rituals
Like my nightly dinner practice with my daughter, you can incorporate gratitude into family or partner routines. It’s a powerful way to bond and create shared moments of positivity.Write Thank-You Notes
Take time to express your appreciation to people who have made a difference in your life. A heartfelt note can strengthen relationships and leave a lasting impact.Gratitude Conversations
Start a conversation with a loved one about things you’re grateful for. Hearing someone else’s perspective can deepen your own sense of appreciation and connection.Make It Fun
Create a “gratitude jar” with family or friends. Throughout the week, write down things you’re grateful for and add them to the jar. At the end of the month or year, read them together.
Gratitude isn’t about ignoring life’s struggles—it’s about noticing the light, however small, in the darkness. It’s a practice of finding hope, connection, and joy, even when life feels overwhelming.
Whether it’s a simple moment at the dinner table or a personal reflection before bed, gratitude has the power to shift our perspective and strengthen our relationships. And perhaps most importantly, it reminds us that even on the hardest days, there is always something to be grateful for.
If you’ve been feeling stuck or overwhelmed, I encourage you to try a gratitude practice of your own. Start small, be consistent, and see where it takes you. You might just find that gratitude isn’t only a game changer—it’s a life changer.