When people think about Thanksgiving, they tend to think about turkey, football, pumpkin pie, and parades. But the annual holiday is actually about celebrating with your family and friends over a tasty meal that should always include copious amounts of mashed potatoes. While it’s important to show your gratitude and give thanks to the loved ones who provide you with endless support, you also need to practice self-gratitude. You wouldn’t be where you are today if it wasn’t for all of your hard work and dedication.
This year, let Thanksgiving act as a reminder to show yourself some love!
Self-gratitude, or self-compassion, looks different for everyone — what works for someone else may give you the heebie jeebies. An easy place to start is setting time aside to reflect with a piece of paper and pen in hand. Write down the things you’ve accomplished this year and some of the highlights that you never want to forget. By doing this, you’ll be able to visualize just how far you’ve come.
What did you get up to? Did you secure funding for the small business you’re planning on launching? Did you host a networking event for women in your industry? Did you run a 5k? Did you have a baby and return to work despite being super, super tired? Did you work 40 hours a week while maintaining a social life? Did you learn how to cook?
All of these things are accomplishments worth celebrating.
If the thought of scribbling down your successes makes the hair on your arms stand straight up, there are many other things you can do to cultivate self-compassion:
Dive into Thanksgiving self-care
If you plan on attending a Thanksgiving dinner, keep your day free of plans and schedule a bunch of self-care. Schedule a manicure and pedicure or have an at-home spa day, go for a hike, spend the entire day with a good book, or unwind with a cup of tea and a celeb gossip blog. Self-care and gratitude can have plenty of benefits such as improved overall well-being, increased self-esteem, improved relationships with others, and reduced stress.
Start a daily journal
Another popular gratitude ritual is journaling every day. And no, you do not have to be a published author nor does your journal have to read like a Colleen Hoover novel. Every night, journal about the day’s events and be sure to include a few things you’re grateful for, something that made you happy, and something you did that made you proud (for self-appreciation purposes!).
Do something nice for yourself
Let Thanksgiving be an excuse to treat yourself to something you’ve wanted for a long time, like a new book, bag, dishware set, or pair of shoes. Fall can be a challenging season for many, filled with lots of change and personal growth, so treat yourself! A little retail therapy can make you feel special, just make sure you don’t go overboard.
Write Thank You cards
Another way to show gratitude to others (and yourself) is by writing Thank You cards. Next time you’re at the local drugstore, pick up a pack of six cards. Take the time to address and write the cards to the five people in your life who have really supported you over the last year. With the sixth card, write a Thank You to yourself and keep it in your bedside table drawer to read whenever you need a pick-me-up.
Get some physical exercise
Taking care of your physical well-being is an important part of self-gratitude. Exercising regularly can also improve your mental health, reduce your risk of certain diseases, improve sleep quality, and make you feel more confident. And you can start small — this Thanksgiving, go for a 15-minute jog around the neighborhood and maybe next year, you’ll be ready to take on the 10k Turkey Trot. Exercising can also provide you with the time to reflect on your personal growth journey while releasing endorphins.
This winter, you’re invited to join the 4th annual Winter Wonderland Holiday Gala that will take place on December 14th. Get in the holiday spirit by connecting with other inspiring women over worship, good food, and even better vibes. Space is limited and we don’t want you to miss out! Click here to secure your early bird spot today!
