Tomorrow is the Thanksgiving Holiday here in the United States. This holiday is fraught with historical and cultural difficulties. It also can be very personally problematic for those whose family engages in drama and conflict. 

However, being in gratitude is a beautiful, calming, and energizing state. So it is worth dedicating time to appreciate the people, places, conditions, and experiences that fill you with gratitude.

The six influencers (which I wrote about in the last blog) aren’t just effective for performance or productivity. These principles are advantageous in many facets of life and can be applied anytime to increase your overall well-being and sense of wholeness.

For example, the influencers can be employed to generate a state of thankfulness and appreciation even amid a hectic holiday gathering. 

Apply the philosophical influencer, and recognize all the goals you have set and achieved in the long and short term. Or how your sense of purpose infuses your activities with meaning. And how your values help you stay in integrity while on your chosen path or even when it’s time to start a new one. 

Wielding your mental mindset, you can focus on all the individuals, relationships, and circumstances you are grateful for instead of the difficulties. Examine your thinking. Are you focusing on what you’re thankful for or what you think should be different? 

You can change your emotions by changing your thinking about the situation and the folks in it. Remembering what you are grateful for will shift your emotional state in the moment. 

Observe how your body feels. Is there pain anywhere? Is there a bodily system that’s not functioning well? Are you having trouble breathing, eating, or sleeping? We often take for granted our normal bodily functions until we are struggling physically.  I recently had bronchitis for six weeks. The simple joy of breathing deeply, and with ease, cannot be overstated. 

Pay close attention to the social interactions and situations that enhance your overall contentment. Hopefully, at least some of those will be people you see or talk to over the holiday weekend. Engage in these relationships and experiences more. I am ever grateful for the people in my life.

Fill your environment with objects that invoke gratitude. I have a section on my refrigerator dedicated to many people and places that have filled my life with joy and meaning. It reminds me to be in gratitude whenever I see it. 

And speaking of the environment, any day between November 1 and March 31 here in the PNW when the sky is blue and the sun shines, as it is today as I write amidst glorious fall colors, is reason enough for gratitude. The trick is to notice it.

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