As the year approaches its final stretch, it’s only natural to find ourselves reflecting on the past months, taking stock of accomplishments, goals met, and dreams chased. Yet, sometimes, the looming feeling of unfulfilled aspirations can cast a shadow on our gratitude. In these moments, it becomes crucial to steer our focus toward the positive aspects of our lives and cultivate an attitude of thankfulness. In this article, we’ll discuss 10 practical steps to remain grateful, even when the checklist of the year seems incomplete.
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Count Small Wins
Begin by acknowledging the small victories, those seemingly insignificant moments that brought a smile to your face. Whether it’s completing a task, learning a new skill, or simply finding joy in everyday experiences, celebrating these wins lays the foundation for gratitude.
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Create a Gratitude Journal
Dedicate a few minutes each day to jot down things you’re grateful for. It could be a kind gesture, a pleasant surprise, or even a valuable lesson learned. Documenting these moments reinforces a positive mindset.
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Express Appreciation
Take the time to express your gratitude to others. Whether through a heartfelt message, a phone call, or a small gesture, sharing your appreciation not only strengthens relationships but also fosters a sense of connection and warmth.
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Focus on the Present
To remain grateful, you must embrace mindfulness and focus on the present moment. Amidst the chaos of unmet goals, redirect your attention to the beauty around you, nature, laughter, or a moment of solitude. Being present allows gratitude to blossom.
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Learn from Setbacks
View setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than roadblocks. Embrace the lessons learned from challenges, recognizing that they contribute to your personal and professional development. This shift in perspective encourages gratitude for the journey, not just the destination.
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Practice Self-Compassion
Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge that it’s okay not to achieve everything on your list. Practising self-compassion involves treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend, fostering a sense of gratitude for your resilience.
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Surround Yourself with Positivity
Engage with uplifting content, whether it’s inspiring books, motivational podcasts, or positive affirmations. Surrounding yourself with positivity helps shift your mindset and keeps gratitude at the forefront of your thoughts.
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Volunteer or Give Back
Engage in acts of kindness and service to others. Volunteering your time or contributing to a cause instils a sense of purpose and gratitude for the ability to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
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Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Shift your focus from perfection to progress. Recognize that growth is a continuous journey, and every step forward is an achievement. Celebrate the progress made, and gratitude will naturally follow.
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Connect with Loved Ones
Strengthen your bonds with family and friends. Share your experiences, dreams, and even your challenges. The support and love from those close to you can serve as a constant reminder of the many reasons to be grateful.
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Final Thoughts
No matter the “a lot” that you have been through this year, most importantly, you’re alive, and when you check properly, you will see so much to remain grateful for. So, as the year winds down, let gratitude be the guiding light that illuminates the path ahead. Embrace the imperfect, celebrate the small victories, and cultivate a spirit of thankfulness. In doing so, you’ll discover that gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion but a powerful force that transforms the way you perceive life.
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This article was first published on 16th December 2023
chidiogo-akaelu
Chidiogo Shalom Akaelu holds a degree in English and Literary Studies, from the University of Nigeria. She is a freelance writer, editor and founder of Loana Press, a budding online publishing outlet.
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