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Thanksgiving is upon us and yes, the food is the main attraction. BUT, this also serves as a reminder to reflect on all the things we are thankful for.

Now, we don’t have to make it cheesy and sit around the table and say what we’re thankful for. (Although, you could if you want. I’m actually not opposed to that.) But just taking a moment, not just now, but everyday to think about what you’re grateful for in your life can drastically improve your mood and the mood of those around you. If you want to have a more positive attitude, practicing gratitude is a great place to start. Here are a few ways gratitude can make a positive impact in your life and the lives of those around you.

Feeling gratitude

It’s easy to get caught up in the stressors of everyday life and dwell on the “don’t haves.” But to experience joy, it takes gratitude. Gratitude is a positive emotion that comes from humbling yourself and realizing how fortunate you are. When I think about it, it really blows my mind that I did nothing to deserve the circumstances I’ve been placed in. And that’s usually where my gratitude grows from. I like to think about it as appreciating everything as if it will all be taken away tomorrow, because there is no guarantee.

Expressing gratitude

This one is probably my favorite. Showing your appreciation to the people in your life is an uplifting experience for all parties involved. Sometimes people don’t know how much they mean to you and could use a little reminder. Whether it’s a card, a quick “thank you,” or even just a text message, your gratitude can make someone feel a sense of purpose and value.

Receiving gratitude

No matter how your day has been going, receiving any form of gratitude can really make your day. Being appreciated can uplift you from the darkest of feelings. Just as it does for others, receiving gratitude can give you a sense of purpose and make you feel valued. When someone thanks you for anything, like being a friend or doing them a favor, accept their gratitude and allow yourself to feel genuinely appreciated. It will improve your mood and attitude. It will probably even increase your likelihood to feel and express gratitude, thus letting the good vibes roll.

Another way I like to practice gratitude is by making a list.

Just a few things I’m thankful for…

Hot coffee
Warm showers
Fuzzy blankets
Music (I’m obsessed with LANY’s latest album, in case you were wondering.)
Stand-up comedy (so good for depression! highly recommend. My fave is John Mulaney.)
Podcasts (NPR has the best ones, but I also love Views with David Dobrik and Jason Nash when I just want to listen to something silly.)
Youtube videos & Netflix
Education (As much as I can complain about college, I’m so lucky to have the educational opportunities I’ve been given.)

Some of the people I’m grateful for…(click to flip through the photos!)