Gratitude

In today’s world, it can feel like there’s so much going wrong. With constant news updates and the endless scroll of social media, it’s easy to focus on the negative. But at the Y, we believe in turning our attention toward the good — because good things are happening all around us, every day.

When we pause to notice what’s going right, we open the door to gratitude.

Gratitude means recognizing, acknowledging, and feeling appreciation for the positive things in our lives — both big and small. It doesn’t mean ignoring challenges or pretending everything’s perfect. It means choosing to focus on what lifts us up, even when times feel tough.

Why Focus on Gratitude?

Practicing gratitude isn’t just a feel-good exercise — it’s a powerful wellness tool. When we are intentional about gratitude, we:

• Boost our mood and increase positive emotions
   
• Strengthen relationships and connections
   
• Improve physical and mental health
   
• Build resilience — our ability to bounce back when things go wrong
   

And resilience is something we all need. Gratitude helps us move through life’s challenges with hope and perspective.

What Can We Be Grateful For?

There’s so much to appreciate when we take a moment to notice. Gratitude can be found in: friendship, nature, memories, pets, food, shelter or those who serve. We are deeply grateful for our veterans and their families for the sacrifices they’ve made to protect and serve our communities and our nation. We want to recognize our Veteran’s in November on Veteran’s Day. 

Along with Veterans Day, we also celebrate World Kindness Day on November 13 — a reminder that gratitude often leads to kindness in action. I encourage you to share kindness this month along with gratitude. Write a thank you note to someone, hold a door for a stranger, volunteer your time, tell a friend, co-worker, or family member how much they mean to you. 

Kindness and gratitude create a ripple effect. When we take time to notice the good and express it to others, we strengthen the sense of community and connection that makes the Y — and the world — a better place.

This November, let’s practice gratitude, share kindness, and remember those who serve. Together, we can make the world a little brighter — one thankful heart at a time.

Resources: 

Resilience Skill Sheet: Gratitude

Y360 Video: Gratitude

App: Gratitude Self Care Journal