Skip to main content


Repost Message
will copy the article into draft mode and enable you to edit/change dates and information.
Do not change the dates
of this posting because it will affect the original.

MCC Daily Tribune

Practicing Moments of Gratitude

With the holiday season approaching, we want to take a moment to recognize moments of gratitude as the holiday season leaves many feeling vulnerable. As you may know, gratitude practices has been proven to be beneficial in promoting positive mental health; for that reason, we wanted to share some simple steps for you to consider practicing in an effort to increase gratitude this holiday season:

  • Write a letter to someone and tell them how much you appreciate them
  • Avoid gossiping/speaking poorly of others
  • Go outside and take a walk to notice the beauty in nature
  • Practice a random act of kindness
  • Watch inspiring and motivational shows/movies/videos
  • Try to find the other, more positive, side whenever you think a negative thought
  • When you make a mistake, find the opportunity to grow through it
  • Stay connected to family and friends
  • Keep a gratitude journal: write down one thing each day that you can identify feeling grateful for, or choose one day of the week to be your weekly gratitude reflection day
  • Choose or create your own gratitude phrase for the month, write it down, and post it somewhere in your home where you will see it often
  • If you notice yourself feeling happy or grateful, practice grounding in that moment: What physical sensations are you feeling in your body while you are carrying that positive feeling?
  • Speak more often about gratitude with your colleagues, friends, and family members
  • At the end of the day, quietly reflect and give thanks to those people, places, or things that brought a little bit of joy into your life recently

Gratitude allows you to find acceptance and be content with what you have, instead of feeling as though you cannot be happy and satisfied until all of your material needs and personal goals are met. It also encourages you to stay grounded in the present moment, which can help you maintain an internal sense of stability and balance when outside events feel threatening.

We wish you well during this time of year.

Stephanie Lee
Counseling Center & Disability Services
11/22/2021