Showing Gratitude
Nov 9, 2020
Focusing on gratitude has been QUITE the exercise of 2020. In a year of so much unknown change, insecurity, discomfort, and pain, how do you find the silver linings or the things you’re thankful for? Even then, how do you live that message, so that it's clear to others. In an interview with Brené Brown, she talks about how happy people practice gratitude in a tangible way. She says our thoughts/attitude do not always translate into action. It's easy to think about the things we’re grateful for, but to actually verbalize them, or put them into action, is an extra step that happy people do. And who doesn’t want to be happy??
Full disclosure, I’m a natural pessimist and definitely have my “low” moments; especially in 2020. It’s hard not to get bogged down by the gravity of everything we’ve all endured this year, but I’m working towards being more optimistic and finding the silver linings in any given situation. It's a goal of mine to vibrate on a higher level of joy, not only for me, but for those in my circle. (Positive vibes are palpable, right)? For every negative thought, I try to find a positive or two-- and I’ve practiced doing so daily. The key word being “practiced.”
Embarrassingly, my “thankfuls” for what I have are sometimes brief reminders or a fleeting thought that I’m lucky for this or that. I’m trying to give those moments the time and attention they deserve. Those thoughts include: my incredible husband, Curly (our pup) snuggles every morning, nightly chats with my mom about how our days were, a roof over my head and food in our cupboard, the ability to be outside 80% of the year in our amazing state, my circle of supportive and loving friends, my health, our chickens!!, my very rewarding job and coworkers (aren’t they all the best?), and of course, my amazing patients!!
But how to take action on my thoughts on gratitude and thankfulness is a muscle I need to flex. On my list of things to try in 2021 include a gratitude journal. Nothing too deep, but just jotting down three things I’m thankful for each day, to remind myself of the GOOD in each moment or each day. I’ll let you know how it goes!
Despite the challenges of 2020, here are the ways I actually showed my gratitude this year:
Talking about the “pit and peak” of our day, at dinner, with my husband. Verbalizing what was hard about the day and what was the silver lining. It really ends each day on a high note.
During the pandemic shut down, my husband, Barrett, and I sent out dozens of printed picture postcards to friends and family, expressing how much they meant to us and how we were excited to see them as soon as we were able. It felt amazing to connect with our loved ones the old-fashioned way to help spread the love.
Barrett and I donated to a few organizations in the midst of unrest in the hopes that our contribution will help those in need and be of use in a positive way.
Even though I wasn’t selected, I volunteered to be an election judge in the recent presidential election. I know that historically, those volunteers consisted of many members of the retired population. Obviously, with COVID numbers rising, I knew our country and state might need able-bodied people to stand up and help. I was confident in my knowledge and PPE at my disposal to keep me safe among the masses. Again, I wasn’t selected unfortunately, but the intention was there! If anything, it inspired me to set up my next volunteer gig, and give back to those who are in need of donated time and attention.
What do you do to express gratitude? What are you thankful for this year? Please drop a sheet into our gratitude jar, or tell me in your next appointment!
And before I go, I just wanted to say a huge “thank you” to all of you out there reading this. My beloved patients who continue to show up and support our humble small business. You truly bring me so much joy to see and treat. My heart explodes knowing that you believe we are essential to your health and wellbeing. I am eternally grateful for you all.
