As we approach the new year, let’s take a moment to live in a moment of gratitude and honor the parts of our lives that enhance our sense of wellness. In the following exploration, we’ll explore 25 examples of things to be thankful for. Each supporting the pillars of our emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, and social dimensions of wellness. Firstly acknowledging both our abundance and the opportunity for development, let’s embark on a journey of appreciation that propels our wellness into the future. While recognizing that privileges we enjoy aren’t universal, highlighting the importance of gratitude for things that might otherwise be taken-for-granted.
Exploring Elements of Gratitude Often Overlooked in Daily Life
- Accessible Outdoor Recreation: The nearby green spaces and recreational areas that offer access to nature and outdoor activities.
- Affectionate Connections: The meaningful and loving relationships with friends, family, and partners that contribute to emotional well-being.
- Available Education: The availability of free educational resources and organizations that empower us to foster lifelong learning.
- Charity and Generosity: The capacity to give and receive, both in terms of time and money, contributing to the well-being of others and creating community.
- Creativity: The ability to express ourselves creatively through art, music, writing, or other forms, providing an outlet for emotions and individuality.
- Diversity: The richness of diverse cultures, traditions, and perspectives that enhances understanding, promotes learning through tolerance, and provides rich new experiences.
- Experience: The value of life’s diverse experiences, both positive and challenging, which contribute to personal growth and resilience.
- Freedom of Expression: Our capacity to express ideas, opinions, and beliefs to create open dialogue and share diverse perspectives.
- Friendship: The deep and purposeful connections with others that contribute to a sense of fulfillment and companionship.
- Fulfilling Hobbies: The ability to engage in hobbies and activities that bring joy, fulfillment, and a sense of accomplishment.
- Harvest of Hard Work: The rewards reaped from the diligent effort and perseverance in personal and professional endeavors.
- Humanity and Empathy: Acknowledging our shared humanity and the capacity to give and receive empathy, fostering connection and understanding.
- Imperfection: The embrace of our flaws and the faults of others, fostering a community of understanding and compassion that celebrates our diversity in experience and outlook.
- Joyous Moments: The moments of happiness, laughter, and positive experiences that contribute to overall well-being.
- Moments of Quiet: The embrace of peaceful moments that allow for rest, reflection, and a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
- Natural Beauty: The magnificence of the natural world, offering tranquility, inspiration, and opportunity for the wonder of exploration.
- Non-Material Wealth: Recognizing and appreciating non-material aspects of wealth, such as love, community, and experiences, which contribute to a fulfilling life.
- Opportunity: The wealth of opportunity for personal and professional growth, allowing us to explore and realize our potential.
- Personal Achievement: The celebration of individual accomplishments, both big and small.
- Resilience: The strength and fortitude displayed in the face of challenges and setbacks, highlighting the human capacity to overcome obstacles.
- Safe-Living Spaces: The secure and comfortable homes and communities that provide safety and well-being.
- Sensory Pleasures: Appreciating the richness of sensory experiences, from the taste of good food to the beauty of art and music to the connection of touch.
- Sleep: Quality and rejuvenating sleep that supports overall health and well-being.
- Unseen Acts of Kindness: Recognizing and appreciating the small constant stream of unseen acts of kindness that enrich you and your community.
- Wisdom: The knowledge gained from lessons learned through experience, fostering personal growth and enhancing the potential of our future.
Things To Be Thankful For and Things To Remember
While embracing a mindset of gratitude, we acknowledge the profound truth that not everyone shares the same privileges, underscoring the importance of expressing thankfulness for things we do have. Clean water, safety, and many other examples seem uncomplicated, yet remain unattainable for many. For these or any other examples currently absent from your life, consider how they might integrate uniquely, driven by your outlook and despite existing limitations.
Recognizing that difficulties may be beyond our control, seeking help beyond ourselves becomes the highest form of self-care. In fact, during times of personal challenges or crises, various resources are available for support and assistance. In the event that you encounter a critical situation, contact the authorities for help.
- Psychology Today’s Therapist Directory allows you to search for mental health professionals based on location, specialties, and insurance.
- Additionally, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline stands as a vital resource, with a hotline reachable at 988. This crisis service offers immediate support or intervention for those in distress.
- For individuals experiencing abuse or violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline can help. Accessible at 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233), this hotline provides assistance, resources, and a confidential space for those affected by domestic violence.
- In case of financial hardship, organizations exist in many communities that serve those in the area. They often help provide support in the form of food assistance or connecting with other programs that offer relief.
With this intention and others, may the coming year be adorned with abundance, joy, and opportunities for wellness. In extending gratitude, let’s also extend compassion, recognizing that wellness is a shared journey. Remember, seeking support is a courageous first step that may take you further towards contentment than you imagine.
