With Thanksgiving coming up next week, people are generally beginning to get into the thankful holiday spirit. It is very typical for everyone to start thinking about what they’re thankful for once Thanksgiving comes around, but shouldn’t we obtain this mindset all the time?

Being thankful is thought to be a basic human attribute since it is meant to be something that we are at all times. However, it is very common for people to have a realization of all they have to be grateful for this time of year and this time only. So what happens when the holiday season ends? Are we going to forget all those things that we realized we are blessed to have? If a realization does happen to hit you this holiday season, try to keep those stored in your brain rather than dismissing them as soon as the holiday’s are over.

If you take some time to sit down and truly think, there are countless things that you are lucky to have. I know everyone is probably used to this speech being given to them by their parents, but it is true. From a brand new car to a pretty sunset, everyone’s life is filled with things that they should take time to appreciate. There are many people who have trouble thinking this way due to hardships that they are dealing with at the moment. I, at times, do too but I have found out over the years that those provocations become a lot easier to overcome when you do realize how lucky you are.

One way to achieve the mindset of constantly being thankful is to keep a gratitude journal. It may seem cheesy, and it will probably feel that way at first, but it is a very healthy and effective way to get into the habit of thinking positively all the time; not just on Thanksgiving. Gratitude journals are a way to keep track of those things that you’re grateful for. Also, you can go back and read them on those times you forget.

This Thanksgiving, take some time to really think about all the good things in your life despite any conflict that you are experiencing.