GRATITUDE
A gentle nudge to pause and appreciate the many blessings that often go unnoticed in our busy lives.
Today, I caught myself taking something for granted that’s so integral to modern life: the internet. When checking emails or hopping on a Zoom call suddenly becomes impossible, it reminds you just how much we rely on these everyday conveniences. It’s humbling, really—and a great opportunity to step back and be grateful for the things we often overlook.
We’ve all had moments where we’ve complained about the little things—a lukewarm shower, a limited menu, or minor frustrations with work or relationships. But complaining has this sneaky way of clouding our ability to feel gratitude.
That’s why I’ve adopted a personal mantra:
“Don’t complain, but if you must, let it be about things outside your control.”
Growing up, many of us were taught to vent our frustrations about things we could change—it’s almost second nature. But unlearning that habit has been one of the most transformative decisions I’ve ever made. It didn’t happen overnight. It took me three years of steady effort to stop seeing complaints as a reflex, and even now, I have moments when old habits creep back in. Still, I can say, with real pride, that this shift has made me a person I truly like and respect—someone I’d want to spend time with.
Letting go of complaints has also made gratitude come so much more naturally. It’s like a door opened, letting me fully appreciate the beauty in the everyday. The wildflowers lining my running path, the elderly couple holding hands on the boardwalk, the way the sunset paints the sky—all of these things feel more vivid and meaningful now. Gratitude has helped me see the world through a lens of love, uncovering the little joys I used to miss.
Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good practice—it’s a powerful tool for growth. If self-improvement is something that excites you, try starting a gratitude journal. I promise, it won’t feel like a wasted effort. Instead, you’ll nurture something beautiful within yourself: a deeper sense of appreciation and a clearer path to becoming your best self.
