Finding Joy: Simple Ways to Practice Gratitude This Holiday Season
The holiday season always gets me thinking about gratitude. There’s something about this time of year—maybe it’s the cozy lights, the festive music, or the chance to slow down—that makes me want to pause and appreciate everything, big and small.
But let’s be honest, it’s not always easy to feel grateful when the holiday to-do list keeps growing. Between shopping, planning, and trying to make everything perfect, it’s easy to get caught up in what’s next and forget about what’s right in front of us.
This year, I’m making an effort to practice gratitude every day, and it’s been a game-changer for my mindset. I thought I’d share a few ideas that are working for me and might inspire you to add a little more thankfulness to your days too.
Keep a Gratitude Journal
One of the more popular ways to practice gratitude is by starting a gratitude journal. I started this last year and it really opened my eyes to all the blessings I have. Every evening, before bed, you take just a couple of minutes to write down three things you are grateful for.
Some days it’s the big stuff, like a happy family moment or a project going well. Other days, it’s as simple as that first sip of coffee or catching a favorite song on the radio.
It’s such an easy habit, but it’s really made me notice and appreciate the little things so much more. Plus, on tougher days, flipping through past entries can be a wonderful reminder of all the good in life.
Pause for Gratitude Breaks
This one’s perfect for the busiest days. While I’m doing something routine—like folding laundry, making the bed, or brushing my teeth—I pause and think about one thing I’m grateful for.
It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t take any extra time, but it helps me reset and focus on the good stuff. I’ve even set a daily phone reminder to take a quick gratitude break—it’s such a helpful way to stay grounded when life feels overwhelming.
Start a Gratitude Jar
This year my husband and I have started a gratitude jar at home, and it’s been one of the most fun ways to practice gratitude to practice as a family! I set out a mason jar with scraps of paper and a pen, and every day, we each write down one thing we’re thankful for.
At the end of the month—or even on Thanksgiving—we’re planning to sit down together and read through all the notes. It’s heartwarming to see what everyone adds, from funny little moments to heartfelt reflections. It’s also a great way to inspire each other to notice the good in our lives.
Share Gratitude with Others
A quick thank-you or a thoughtful text can go a long way in brightening someone’s day. Lately, I’ve been trying to leave more positive reviews for deserving small businesses, send thank-you notes to people who’ve helped me, or even just smile and say, “I appreciate you.”
It doesn’t have to be anything big or elaborate—just letting someone know they’ve made a difference can be incredibly meaningful. And honestly? Seeing their reaction fills my heart too.
Celebrate the Little Wins
Gratitude doesn’t have to be reserved for big moments. I’ve started celebrating the little wins, like finding the perfect gift, baking cookies without burning them, or simply enjoying a stress-free evening.
Taking time to acknowledge those small victories keeps things in perspective and reminds me to focus on the good—even when life feels hectic.
Reflect at the End of the Year
As the year wraps up, I like to look back on the moments that brought me joy, taught me something, or made life a little brighter. It’s easy to dwell on what didn’t go right, but this simple reflection helps me end the year with a positive mindset and start the next one with gratitude.
This Holiday Season, Let Gratitude Shine
The holidays are a beautiful reminder to pause and appreciate life’s blessings, but gratitude doesn’t have to end with the season. By discovering ways practice to gratitude and building these simple habits now, you can carry a spirit of thankfulness into the new year and beyond.
How do you practice gratitude during the holidays? I’d love to hear your ideas—leave a comment and let’s inspire each other to keep this spirit going all year long!
