It doesn’t matter how good you are at predicting the future; nobody saw 2020 coming. The challenges of this year are serious, but it’s just too darn draining to dwell on 2020’s low points. That’s why I always recommend taking a few moments to “pause” and be grateful — even during a pandemic.
It doesn’t matter how good you are at predicting the future; nobody saw 2020 coming. The challenges of this year are serious, but it’s just too darn draining to dwell on 2020’s low points. That’s why I always recommend taking a few moments to “pause” and be grateful — even during a pandemic.
There’s a lot of research that suggests people who regularly express gratitude have a more positive outlook than those who don’t. That’s not all that surprising when you consider “grateful” literally means “pleasing to the mind.” I honestly believe gratitude was an early, all-natural form of anxiety relief!
As Thanksgiving draws near, I felt inspired to share a few of the things I’m thankful for this year.
Health, Humility, and (Socially Distant) Hugs! – What I’m Thankful for in 2020
Health is one of those things that’s easy to take for granted — until something goes wrong. As we get involved in the busyness of life, we often forget that our hearts are beating, our lungs are breathing, and our neurons are firing away.
During a global pandemic, it’s impossible not to recognize the gift of a healthy body. So, first off, I want to say I’m thankful for my health and the well-being of those around me. I feel blessed to have had so many days to live, laugh, and love with my friends and family.
Speaking of friends and family, you all know how I’m always talking about “building a village,” right? Well, I’m certainly thankful for my village this year! During these challenging times, we can see just how crucial community is to our mental health.
Personally, I’m incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to give back to so many families in my career. Early on, I learned from my Nana and Papa both the responsibilities and rewards of raising kiddos. While being a professional nanny has been “messy” at times, I’m so thankful to have had a job that gives me a sense of purpose (and the cuddles are pretty great, too!).
Lastly, I’m also thankful to have had the opportunity to give back to my local community. I have no doubt that we all receive way more when we give to others. Being generous simply feels good! I think we could all “profit” by adding some generosity to our lives during these tough times.
Of course, I know that not everyone is in a position to give right at this moment. If you find yourself in this situation, please don’t be afraid to ask for help. Seeking assistance is not a sign of weakness! There is a wisdom to receiving just as there is to giving.
So, if you’re struggling to get by this holiday season, I encourage you to ask for help from your village. Feel free to also join my Instagram community or DM me if you need extra help!
Swap Your “Grumpy Grind” For A “Gratitude Groove!”
If you want your kiddos to grow up happy and healthy, one of the best things you could do is establish a gratitude routine. Even if it’s just ten minutes a day, developing this “gratitude muscle” will help you and your kiddo see life’s challenges through an entirely new light. While thankfulness exercises won’t get rid of life’s difficulties, they will help you approach all of life’s moments with a positive mindset.
Thankfully, there are many easy ways that could make gratitude the supreme attitude in your home. In fact, I’ve written a post explaining this subject in detail! Be sure to check out this for more ideas.
I’d love to hear from you on social media which of these resonated with you. DM me @windycitynanny and let me know what you’re most grateful for this year! XOXO
