Life has a way of rushing us from one responsibility to the next.
Pause for a moment before reading further. What does your day look like today, right now as you read this?
As women, we often carry so much – family, work, leadership and the quiet weight of expectations. The list never seems to end. It’s easy to focus on what’s missing or what feels unfinished. I’ve been guilty of that, too. I remember a time when I didn’t know how to stop. Yes, I was a workaholic. I still work hard, but I’ve found a better balance.
Someone once told me, “You’re like the Road Runner – either get behind or get run over.” At the time, I took it as a compliment. Looking back, how wrong was I to believe that? Am I a woman on a mission? Absolutely. We all are. But, what good are we if we push ourselves so hard that we end up in a hospital bed?
One of the most powerful shifts we can make is choosing gratitude daily. That means slowing down and celebrating the wins. Not just once a year at Thanksgiving, not only in the big moments, but every single day.
I know that it can feel hard. So, let’s pause right here. Before moving forward, ask yourself:
What are your wins today?
Why Gratitude
Gratitude isn’t just saying thank you. It’s a posture of the heart. It’s pausing to recognize that, even when life isn’t perfect, there is always something to appreciate.
Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to the abundance already around us.
Here are a few practices that have worked for me:
- Start the Morning with Thanks
Before reaching for your phone or writing your to-do list, whisper a prayer of gratitude. Thank God for breath in your lungs, a new day and the opportunities ahead. Beginning your day with appreciation sets the tone for everything that follows. - Keep a Gratitude Journal
Spend five minutes writing down three things for which you’re grateful. They don’t have to be big; sometimes it’s hot tea, a child’s laughter or a text from a friend. Over time, this simple habit trains your heart to notice blessings in real time. - Express it to Others
We often feel appreciation but forget to share it. Tell your coworker she did a fantastic job. Text a friend, and let her know you’re thankful for her. Hug your children a little tighter and remind them how much you love being their mom.
Who will you show appreciation to today?
(I’m sure it’s more than two people – grab a sticky note and keep adding names.)
- End the Day with Reflection
As you close out your evening, take a moment to recall what you appreciated that day. Did you see God’s hand at work? Did someone show kindness? Did you notice progress in an area you’ve been praying about? Ending your day with gratitude allows you to rest in peace instead of worrying.
Gratitude as a Lifestyle
When we practice appreciation daily, it doesn’t just change our mood, it transforms our outlook. Gratitude softens our hearts, strengthens our relationships and reminds us that God is always working behind the scenes.
Living with daily appreciation isn’t about ignoring struggles. It’s about recognizing joy, beauty and blessing right in the middle of them.
So today, let’s make the choice. Instead of waiting for the big wins, let’s celebrate the daily gifts. Gratitude isn’t something you check off a list; it’s a lifestyle.
Until next time, enjoy the journey.
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