We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: a little bit of gratitude can go a long way in supporting your happiness and overall wellbeing. If you don’t already subscribe to a daily practice, this may convince you to start one.

It’s November, friends. We’re about to set the clocks back and truly sink into “the dark days” of Fall.

You may find yourself grieving the loss of long, sunshiny summer days, or maybe you’re already feeling the pressure of holiday festivities. Maybe you just wish you could time-travel right out of this pandemic. That makes sense. It’s normal to get swept up in what was, what will be, or what could be. However, this month, we’re reminded to pause and notice what’s good and joyous – right here and right now – with a daily dose of gratitude.

Happy National Gratitude Month

There’s no arguing the benefits of experiencing gratitude. Research continually shows that there is, indeed, a connection between it and our overall happiness and well-being.

Hailey Bartholomew is not a scientist, but she goes so far as to call gratitude the “secret to happiness”. Her 12-minute TEDx Talk is one of the many beautiful reminders of the powerfully positive effects of daily gratitude. In her presentation, she demonstrates how we can cultivate deep connection, love, and joy every single day by simply noticing it.

Tailor your practice to your needs and interests.

Your practice doesn’t have to be a photography project. Make it your own! It should be something that you want to do, not a chore.

Not sure where to begin? Here is a list of 40 simple ways to practice every day.