November is the time of year where we reflect on what we are grateful for. It’s a time for connecting with family and friends through a universal language – food. Some families have the tradition of going around the table and saying what they are thankful for, and some express these feelings through making delicious foods and desserts. Either way, the holiday season is a time for giving and gratitude. I would argue that we shouldn’t save our gratitude for this time of year, and instead be grateful everyday for what we do have. Entrepreneurship can take its toll and can be a long, rough road. Practicing gratitude for all aspects of your journey can go a long way.
A lot of people seem obsessed with perfecting their morning routine; wake up at 5 am, make the most nutrition packed flax seed protein smoothie imaginable, do a crossfit class, complete a 12 step skincare routine, and drink a gallon of water. One thing I believe is missing from these intense routines is taking some time to be grateful for what you have, who you have and what you’ve done. We get so bogged down by seeing people on social media with their Ferrari and their Hollywood mansion at 23, and we get the whole meaning of success twisted and end up with this negative mindset of ourselves and our situation. In reality, if we are here, if we are waking up everyday, we have a reason to be grateful. Practicing gratitude is changing that negative mindset that the online world likes to breed in humanity and flipping it around.
And I’m not saying that practicing gratitude is easy. Life is hard. A lot of people in this world have it too tough. But we are here, and if we are here today then we have the ability to take a step forward, to make changes in our own lives and in those around us. My argument is that the first step is to constantly look for the positives in our situation and to be grateful. As an entrepreneur you will see successes and setbacks, and each is an opportunity to practice gratitude; for the fruits of your labor and for the opportunity to learn.
So my challenge to you, the reader, is to really think about what you are thankful or grateful for this holiday season, and not only share it at the dinner table on Thanksgiving, but to think about it every morning. Be grateful for the opportunity to wake up every morning, for the people in your life and even for the ability to be grateful.
