LIFE

Thanksgiving may be over, but gratitude is something you can practice all year round. Reminding yourself to be thankful can build resilience to help you deal with tough situations more easily. 

What is something you are thankful for that you tend to take for granted?

Reflect on the things you are thankful for that might be usually overlooked. Maybe you're grateful for having a warm meal to eat every night, or you might be thankful to have clean water to drink. To take it a step further, consider how you could express more appreciation for this. That could mean volunteering at a local food pantry or educating yourself on how to conserve water each day.

What experience are you most thankful for?

Write about a moment or memory in your life that you wouldn't trade for anything. It could be the time you met your best friends at summer camp. Or maybe you discovered your passion for acting after you were cast in the school play. Reflect on what this experience means to you and why it's so special.

Who are three family members or friends you are thankful for? What do you appreciate most about them?

Think about the people you're closest to and take a few minutes to reflect on why you're grateful for them. Whether you write about your bestie who organized a surprise car parade for your birthday this year or your parent who makes yummy breakfasts for you every morning, jot down why you're thankful for their presence in your life. To take it one step further, think about a way to show them you care.

What do you like most about your personality?

Being grateful includes appreciating yourself, too. Maybe you're super caring and never miss your friends' birthdays. Or maybe you're outgoing and can turn anyone's bad day around. Whatever your style, take a minute to reflect on the most special parts of what make you, well, *you*.

What simple comforts are you thankful for today?

Simple comforts can be anything—from the fuzzy socks you slip on before bed or the good vibes you get from watching a Full House rerun. These may be small joys, but recognizing them can definitely contribute to your overall happiness.

What are your favorite places in the world? Why do you appreciate them?

Think about places where you feel calm, happy and centered. If you love nature, you could write about your family's garden or hikes in the woods. If reading's your thing, you might be a huge fan of your local bookstore where you can grab a pastry at the cafe before catching up on the latest reads. Remember what you love most about this place and why you are grateful for it.

How can you express gratitude outside of your home?

Think of the people and places outside of your inner circle who you may come into contact with. If you love getting takeout from your favorite local restaurant, consider writing a sweet online review or thanking them the next time you go in. Or, take a second to thank the person who bags your groceries at the grocery store—it might just make their day.

What special talents do you have, and which ones are you most thankful for?

You can go general or specific with this one. Everyone has something they're amazing at! Maybe you're a physics whiz or can whip up a mean batch of cookies n' cream brownies. You might also be great at scouting out the best deals at Target or finding new TikTok trends. Write down all the talents you can think of and which ones mean the most to you.

What is the best thing that happened to you today?

Replay your day and pick one standout moment, then write about why it made you smile. It can be as simple as getting a text from a friend you haven't talked to in a while or passing your math test. Savor these silver linings and victories, small or large. 

What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

Even if you just have class all day, there's gotta be something to get you energized for the new day. Remind yourself of the new episode of The Voice that's airing or the catch-up Zoom sesh you're having with your BFFs. Nothing on your schedule? Go ahead and plan something, even if it's just trying a new DIY face mask or watching your favorite movie. Remembering that there's so much to look forward to might help you greet the new day with a smile on your face.

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Which prompt is your favorite? Tag us @girlslifemag!

by Ariane Faro | 12/6/2020