When was the last time you practiced gratitude [1] for the simple things in things? With the hustle, bustle, and stress of everyday life, it's easy to become fixated on big-picture worries and take for granted all the little facets of life that deserve appreciation, many of those which can be a major boost to your overall happiness [2]. It's hard to appreciate the things in life that seem mundane, but sometimes those are the most important. If you're in need of a mindset transformation [3], take a look at these 66 things you can be grateful for all year long.
— Additional reporting by Lauren Harano and Tara Block
You're alive and breathing.
You're able to read this.
You have someone (or multiple someones) that you consider a best friend.
Your pet(s) love you unconditionally.
If you're currently unemployed, you have free time.
Much-needed vacation days.
Those weekends that feel longer than two days.
Those workweeks that feel shorter than five days.
Mornings you can sleep in.
Cozy fires and hot chocolate.
Maintained connections with long-distance friends.
Holiday memories from past years.
Future life events to look forward to.
Your earliest childhood memory.
The places you have traveled to, and the promise of future travels.
Your bad days. (They make the good days better.)
The lessons you learned this year.
You're not the same person you were this time last year. You've grown.
The moment you finally see someone you've missed.
The song that always makes you feel better.
The memories with your parents you will never forget.
The people in your life who always make sure you're getting home safely.
The money in your bank account.
If you're single: you get a period of self-discovery and quality time with friends.
People who have forgiven you.
Seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice and gingerbread.
Books that changed your life.
People who pick up the tab.
That hair grows back after a bad haircut.
Kind people on public transportation.
Long overdue hugs from friends and family.
Those voicemails you have saved on your phone.
Rainy days spent at home.
Hometown spots with a lot of nostalgia.
Old photos with people you've lost.
The teachers you will never forget.
Gifts you didn't expect to receive.
Being able to buy something you've been saving up for.
Friends who have stuck around through your toughest times.
Everything you have yet to learn but will.
Links:
[1] https://www.popsugar.com/fitness/how-shifting-my-to-do-list-to-gratitude-reduced-my-stress-47417631
[2] https://www.popsugar.com/smart-living/How-Become-Happier-36454534
[3] https://www.popsugar.com/smart-living/How-Change-Your-Life-Year-26709448
[4] https://www.popsugar.com/smart-living/how-to-make-your-everyday-routines-more-enjoyable-47549475