As the season of Thanksgiving draws near, our focus drifts to the bustling excitement of holiday events, the artful planning of special meals, and the orchestration of grand celebrations that define this cherished time of year. Yet, in the midst of the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to overlook the small moments of joy that truly define this season. This year, let’s shift our perspective and view Thanksgiving as an opportunity to not only notice and give thanks for the big things, but also to look for and appreciate the subtle glimmers of happiness that illuminate our lives.
In a world that often encourages us to constantly strive for more, Thanksgiving provides the opportunity to pause and reflect on the things that we are already fortunate to have. Research has shown that practicing gratitude has numerous positive effects on our mental and emotional well-being. Studies have linked gratitude to increased feelings of happiness and life satisfaction (Emmons & McCullough, 2003). The Thanksgiving season is a perfect time to practice gratitude, whether you revel in the comforting embrace of your home, savor the tantalizing scents emanating from your kitchen, or find solace in the presence of cherished ones. These seemingly minor moments are, in truth, the foundation of our well-being and contentment.
Practicing gratitude during Thanksgiving doesn’t require grand gestures or elaborate displays. Studies have also found that regularly acknowledging and appreciating the small pleasures in life can lead to increased feelings of well-being and reduced levels of stress (Emmons & Mishra, 2011). By acknowledging and cherishing these glimmers, we cultivate a mindset of gratitude that extends far beyond the holiday season.
It can be as straightforward as expressing gratitude for the patter of raindrops on the window, the comfort of a steaming mug of cocoa, or the awe-inspiring beauty of a sunset.
Take a moment to relish the shared laughter around the dining table, the heartfelt stories exchanged among family members, and the authentic connections that infuse this holiday with its unique warmth. Amidst our busy schedules, these instances of connection and gratitude are priceless treasures deserving of our attention.
So, as you gather with your loved ones this Thanksgiving, take a moment to contemplate the glimmers in your life. Let gratitude fill your heart and guide your interactions. Embrace the modest joys that often go unnoticed, for it is within these moments that genuine happiness resides. May this season of Thanksgiving be the beginning of a lifelong practice of appreciating the small joys that enrich our lives.
If you’d like some support building a gratitude practice in your life, reach out to schedule a session. We’re here to help.
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels
Nicolle Osequeda, LMFT, is the founder of Lincoln Park Therapy Group, specializing in anxiety, depression, and relationship counseling in Chicago. As a Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator, she incorporates Dr. Brené Brown’s research into her therapy. Nicolle holds a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco and is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois and California. She is a Clinical Fellow of AAMFT, a member of IAMFT, and the Financial Therapy Association. Nicolle has Gottman Method training and has taught at DePaul University, dedicated to helping individuals and couples achieve meaningful change. 
