It's October and traditionally a time to give thanks, time to reflect on all that is good in your life; what you have, what you do, who you are; time to appreciate family, friends, neighbours and co-workers.
Of course, we don't have to wait for Thanksgiving Day to count our blessings and good fortunes. We don't have to visit family and friends or receive them in our homes, with a celebration dinner, to appreciate them. We can reflect and give thanks whenever we choose and create, at will, the positive emotions connected to the people and achievements in our life that matter. Life for many people is so hectic that sometimes we forget to do that. It's all too easy to overlook the good stuff and take it for granted, until we get a reminder, such as Thanksgiving Day.
As we think about the last three-quarters of this year, it's likely that all of us will have either achieved something to be proud of, and/or experienced something that generated some warm, fuzzy feelings. The size and scope of the achievement or experience is unimportant. What matters most is that it made you feel good.
Appreciation, of ourselves as well as others, is significant. It can help us get perspective, take stock, plan ahead, build our self-esteem and confidence, find energy to continue our journey and maintain a positive attitude. If nothing else, this internal positive focus, even for a moment, can put a smile on your face.
So, what are you giving thanks for this year?
What have you achieved, or learned that was helpful or meaningful? What happened that was good?
What barriers have you overcome? Who has helped you?
What, or who, has made a positive impact on you and your life?
Think about your work, job search efforts, your hobbies and leisure-time, your family, friends, community.
Recording these reflections can be helpful, using words, pictures, certificates, etc. A sort of "smile file" if you like. You can then refer to them, anytime, when your spirits need a boost, when you need to re-energize or re-focus, or to provide inspiration for something new you'd like to have, be or do.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Hazel Morley is principal of Think Smart: Training and Coaching with Change in Mind. She can be contacted at [email protected].
