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21 Things to be Thankful For Today (With Examples!)

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Updated on January 29, 2023

what are you thankful for featured

Being thankful is not dependent on how many things you have to be thankful for. It’s based on what you choose to be thankful for. So, what are you thankful for today?

When the world seems full of challenges and hurdles, you might need some inspiration on what you can be thankful for. Seeing that gratitude is linked to happiness, you have all the more reason to practice thankfulness every once in a while.

In this article, I’ve listed 21 unique and inspiring things to be thankful for. I’ve asked different people and tried creating the most varying list to inspire you to be grateful.

Being grateful is related to an increase in your happiness

Being thankful is linked to improved quality of sleep, 1. thankful for having a loving dog, 2. thankful for having a caring parent, 3. thankful for the good deeds that exist in this world, 4. thankful for enjoying time spent with my family, 5. thankful for a great show on netflix, 6. thankful for the beautiful sunlight, 7. thankful for the many good memories in my life, 8. thankful for having a roof above my head, 9. thankful for experiencing the struggles in life, 10. thankful for being able to go on walks, 11. thankful for spending time in nature, 12. thankful for getting to spend time with my girlfriend, 13. thankful for waking up each morning with the birds outside of my window, 14. thankful for appreciating music, 15. thankful for getting to be vulnerable, 16. thankful for seeing my strawberry plant grow, 17. thankful for the not-so-great stuff in life, 18. thankful for my life partner, 19. thankful for all the farmers and drivers who nourish us with fresh food, 20. thankful for technology, 21. thankful for the feeling of putting on a fresh pair of socks, wrapping up, why should you be thankful today.

As I mentioned in the intro, there are plenty of reasons to be thankful today.

Even when luck doesn’t seem to be on your side, it’s always good to try to consider some of the things that are still kind to you.

But why exactly should you be thankful? How exactly does a little gratitude improve your life? There have been multiple fascinating studies that prove multiple links between thankfulness and positive factors in life, but I want to highlight two of them here.

One of the most detailed studies on thankfulness was conducted in 2003 by Robert Emmons and Michael McCullough . They monitored the happiness of a group of people after having asked the following question:

“There are many things in our lives, both large and small, that we might be grateful about. Think back over the past week and write down on the lines below up to five things in your life that you are grateful or thankful for.”

The study showed that people were approximately 10% happier when encouraged to think of things they’re grateful for.

10 percent may sound inconsequential, but if you practice gratitude every day, these small improvements will compound and may improve your mental health in a significant way.

💡 By the way : Do you find it hard to be happy and in control of your life? It may not be your fault. To help you feel better, we’ve condensed the information of 100’s of articles into a 10-step mental health cheat sheet to help you be more in control. 👇

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In addition, another study reviewed the influence of gratitude on the quality of sleep.

This study tested whether individual differences in gratitude are related to sleep quality. Gratitude predicted greater subjective sleep quality and sleep duration, and less sleep latency and daytime dysfunction. These results were found after studying 400 people of all ages.

Long story short, thinking about things to be thankful for and grateful for before going to bed is linked to a better quality of sleep. This is also why it’s good to maintain a gratitude journal right before going to sleep!

What are you thankful for today?

Here are 21 examples of what you can be thankful for today. These examples are from real people, as I went online and asked around:

What is something that you are grateful for? For example, you can be grateful for someone smiling at you, for a beautiful sunset, or for some nice music that you recently listened to. Whatever comes to your mind is OK!

Who’s thankful: Suset Laboy

I am deeply grateful for my coffee-loving dog. Every morning, as soon as he smells the coffee my sister is making, he runs to the kitchen because he loves the smell. When she is done, he chases her to the couch and sit on her and tries to convince her to give him some coffee. It is both hilarious and heartwarming, and I have started looking forward to this little morning ritual that brings some much needed levity into our days.

Who’s thankful: Nancy Osoro

I always start my day with a little gratitude as soon as my feet hit the floor. But lately, I have been very grateful for my mom who is constantly reminding me to drink my fresh ginger tea to keep me healthy during these crazy and stressful times. Despite a 7-hour time difference, she makes it a point of calling every day. It makes me realize how lucky I am.

Who’s thankful: Leia Kalani

We live in a crazy world and it’s far too easy to only see the negative around us. I am so grateful every time I see someone do a good deed for someone else, even a small gesture can have a huge impact. Whether it’s helping a blind person cross the street, carrying groceries for the elderly, or even holding the door open for someone, these good deeds rekindle my belief in the good of humanity. It’s easy to get bogged down by society but opening your eyes and seeing the good can make you thankful that there are still good people in the world.

This list wouldn’t be complete without a specific mention of family.

The truth is, I love spending time with my family, mainly my parents, brother, and sister. I’m thankful for the time my brother, sister and I ran a marathon together. Or the many dinners at my parents’ with the entire family. Or when my father takes my brother and me to Austria for a couple of days of hiking in the mountains.

I am extremely thankful for having a loving family, and it’s something that I should always try to remember when I’m feeling down or unhappy.

Who’s thankful: Nancy Irwin

I’m grateful for the amazing cast, set designers, and costumes of The Crown. I am so grateful that I can curl up in a soft blanket on my sofa and binge this amazing educational, historical, fascinating show during my free time now.

Who’s thankful: Joy Rains

I’m grateful for sunlight! Yesterday afternoon, a sunbeam entered my home through the dining room window. Bright yellow circles of light landed on the legs of my dining room chairs. Each chair looked to be adorned with glistening jewels. I smiled, grateful to be a witness to nature’s magic.

This is something that I’m personally very grateful for in my life.

I keep an entire memory journal dedicated to remembering the many good memories of my life.

I find that remembering good memories helps me maintain a happy mind. Thinking back about that time that I laughed my ass off about something silly brings a smile to my face. This is something I try to do daily, whenever I find a moment to stand still and think about my life.

Who’s thankful: Tessa Hull

I’m grateful for knowing that I’m not “stuck” in the house but “safe” in the house while others out there cannot be so lucky, either not having a roof over their head or not feeling safe in their own home. Knowing how to reframe my thoughts when I’m feeling rubbish helps. I’m also super grateful for a steady supply of Italian cheese. Because not everything you’re grateful for needs to be so serious.

Who’s thankful: Noelle Creamer

Something that I am grateful for are struggles. To me, they are a gift. Rather than living a life of luxury and ease, my struggles over the years have taught me value, wisdom, and compassion. They have led me to spiritual growth. The greater the challenge I face, the more I learn, the more I progress, and the stronger I become. For that, I am grateful.

Who’s thankful: Emily Adams

I am grateful to have my health and the fact that I can still spend time in nature. On my walk today I was able to see four baby foxes and just soak it all in and I am grateful for that.

Who’s thankful: Nekeshia Hammond

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to spend time in nature. Whether it is taking the time to watch a sunset, spending time on a beach, or enjoying time in the mountains (if I’m visiting another place), nature offers such peace of mind. As we can all get so busy with the day-to-day, it’s nice to unwind, take some deep breaths, and focus on the beauty that nature has to offer.

This is one that I personally wanted to include in this list. I’m incredibly grateful for the fact that my girlfriend and I somehow found each other in this world with over 7 billion people.

My relationship is one of my biggest happiness factors . I love my girlfriend and she makes my life happier on a daily basis. It almost sounds cheesy to write it down, but I just don’t want to take this relationship for granted. I feel lucky to have her in my life and wouldn’t want to imagine what it’d be like if it was any different.

It’s one of the things I’m most thankful for in life.

Who’s thankful: Lynell Ross

Each morning, I am treated with a visit from these precious little birds, first flying back and forth, then hovering in front of the glass as if they are saying good morning before they sit to drink their nectar. I love seeing their tiny little hummingbird shape and color so close up, reminding me to be aware of nature, which is so comforting and peaceful.

This is another one that I personally wanted to add to the list.

If you still have your hearing, then you should be grateful for the beauty of sound. The fact that multiple sound waves combined form music that can carry emotion, tension, and excitement is something that we often take for granted.

Music has the power to move. I personally experience this every once in a while, when a song sucks me in and takes me on a journey. This journey always ends up putting a smile on my face, and sometimes even brings me to tears. Tears of happiness, that is.

The fact that we’re able to hear and appreciate sounds and music is definitely something to be thankful for.

Who’s thankful: Michelle Kuei

I am grateful for all the connections I am able to make when I let my guard down and become vulnerable. Being able to use my vulnerability as a superpower to share my story with others provides healing in the heart of others. It gives them strength and comfort knowing they are not alone. This brings me joy, fulfillment, and purpose in my heart. I am grateful for the connections I have made through being vulnerable and sharing my story.

Who’s thankful: Chris Kaiser

One small thing I’m super grateful for is seeing the flowers on the very first strawberry plant I ever planted. We planted it about 3 weeks ago on our balcony, and since then I’m diligently counting every single flower it produces (13 in total so far). Every tiny new flower puts a broad smile to my face.

Who’s thankful: Allen Klein

This may sound strange, but I’m grateful for the not-so-great stuff in my life. They are my greatest teachers. For example, I learned about living fully from those who have passed on. I’ve learned to appreciate my body more from the times things don’t function as they should. And now, I’m learning about being grateful for the parks in my neighborhood now that I have to shelter in place during this pandemic.

Who’s thankful: Saurabh Jindal

The biggest gift to me has been my wife, Rashmi Agarwal. She has been an unflinching pillar of support as I have gone through many difficult times while trying to build my start-up. She is one of the smartest persons I have met and has an uncanny ability to look at any situation from multiple angles. As an entrepreneur, I sometimes work on my own and with small teams – and with her help I am able to achieve much more than what I would otherwise.

Who’s thankful: Naz Beheshti

I’m grateful for tasty celery again for my daily celery and lemon juice. I was about to take a break from my morning ritual since I was getting really bitter tasting celery at the store. But I persisted and waited in line for it, and now it’s tasty again. I’m grateful for all the farmers and drivers who nourish us with fresh and tasty products!

Who’s thankful: Terrell Strayhorn

I’m really grateful for technology. Cell phones that keep me connected to my family, kids, colleagues, and students during the pandemic. Laptops and iPads that enable video connections via Zoom, provide “mental breaks” to play games or watch videos, and even apps for journaling and writing. Homepods and headphones that let me listen to music as a backdrop to serious activities like writing or analyzing data, but also music as a distraction to the crisis impacting us all. Today, I’m grateful for technology.

As a final item on this list, I wanted to finish with something silly and funny. But that doesn´t mean it’s less true.

Whenever I buy a new 5-pack of socks, I’m always surprised by how nice it feels to put them on for the first time. The feeling of smoothness that comes with putting on a pair of new socks is something I am truly grateful for.

Don’t you agree?

💡 By the way : If you want to start feeling better and more productive, I’ve condensed the information of 100’s of our articles into a 10-step mental health cheat sheet here. 👇

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This Cheat Sheet Will Help You Be Happier and More Productive

Thrive under stress and crush your goals with these 10 unique tips for your mental health.

There you have it. If you still can’t think of things to be thankful for, then I give up! I hope you now have a good understanding of why you should always be able to remember something to be thankful for. And don’t forget, you can be thankful for silly things that seem insignificant (like putting on a pair of fresh socks!).

Did I miss something that you would have liked to see on this list? Do you want to have your favorite thing to be thankful for listed in this article? I’d love to hear all about it in the comments below!

Hugo

Founder of Tracking Happiness, with over 100 interviews and a focus on practical advice, our content extends beyond happiness tracking. Hailing from the Netherlands, I’m a skateboarding enthusiast, marathon runner, and a dedicated data junkie, tracking my happiness for over a decade.

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Essay on Things I Am Grateful

Students are often asked to write an essay on Things I Am Grateful in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Things I Am Grateful

I am grateful for my family. They love and care for me. They are always there to support me in good and bad times. They teach me important things about life. I am thankful for the happy moments we share together.

Good health is a blessing. I am grateful for being healthy. It allows me to do all sorts of things like playing, studying, and helping others. It also saves me from pain and suffering.

I am grateful for the chance to learn. Education opens doors to a brighter future. It helps me understand the world better. It also equips me with skills for life.

I am thankful for my friends. They make my life fun and exciting. They support me when I am down. They are like a second family.

I am grateful for nature. It gives us food, clean air, and beautiful sights. It makes our world a wonderful place to live in. It also teaches us about life and its cycles.

250 Words Essay on Things I Am Grateful

Family love.

The first thing I am grateful for is my family. They are like a big tree that gives me shade on a sunny day. My parents, siblings, and grandparents always support me. They love me a lot and I love them too. Their love is like a warm blanket on a cold night.

Good Health

Another thing I am thankful for is my good health. It lets me run, play, and have fun. It helps me to learn new things at school. Good health is like a strong boat that keeps me safe in the sea of life.

I am also grateful for my education. It is like a key that opens the door to a bright future. My teachers help me to learn new things every day. They guide me like a lighthouse guides a ship in the dark.

I am thankful for my friends. They make my life fun and exciting. We share our joys and sorrows. They are like stars that light up my world.

The last thing I am grateful for is nature. It gives me fresh air, clean water, and beautiful scenery. It is like a big playground where I can enjoy and learn.

In conclusion, I am grateful for many things. They make my life happy and meaningful. I hope to cherish them and make the most of them.

500 Words Essay on Things I Am Grateful

Introduction.

Gratitude is a strong feeling of being thankful to someone or something for the good things they have given you. It’s like a magic key that opens up a world of positivity and happiness. Today, I want to share some of the things I am grateful for in my life.

First, I am grateful for my family. They are my support system, always there to help me when I need it. My parents, who work hard to provide for me, teach me important life lessons and guide me through tough times. My siblings, even though we sometimes fight, are my best friends. They make me laugh, share my joys and sorrows, and teach me the importance of sharing and caring.

Another thing I am grateful for is my health. Good health is a blessing that allows me to do everything I want. It lets me play, study, and enjoy life to the fullest. I am thankful for the food I eat that keeps me healthy, the clean water I drink, and the fresh air I breathe.

I am also grateful for the opportunity to go to school and learn. Education is a powerful tool that helps me understand the world around me. It gives me the skills to solve problems, make decisions, and become a better person. I am thankful for my teachers who guide me, my classmates who help me learn, and the books that open my mind to new ideas.

I am thankful for the beautiful world around me. The bright sun that gives me warmth, the cool breeze that refreshes me, the green trees that give me shade, and the colorful flowers that make me smile. I am grateful for the birds that sing, the rivers that flow, and the mountains that stand tall. Nature teaches me about the beauty of life and the importance of taking care of our planet.

Lastly, I am grateful for the challenges I face. They might be tough and sometimes make me feel sad, but they help me grow. Challenges teach me to be strong, to never give up, and to believe in myself. They make me realize that I can do anything if I try hard and stay positive.

In conclusion, there are many things I am grateful for. My family, health, education, nature, and the challenges I face. These things make me who I am and fill my life with joy and meaning. I believe that being grateful makes us happier and more positive. So, let’s always remember to be thankful for the good things in our life.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

  • Essay on Things
  • Essay on Psychology On Depression
  • Essay on Psychology As Science

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

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What are you grateful for 105 things to be thankful for in life.

Here's a list of 40 things to be grateful for today.

A man and a woman planting in their garden

There are so many things around us and in our lives that we overlook, so many blessings that we forget to acknowledge. Gratitude is everywhere. We are all so blessed in little and big ways. All we are required to do is focus.

To find things to be grateful for in every moment, I recommend trying out a technique that I call ' Atomic Gratitude '.

In this technique, we pick up one small aspect of our lives, and it can be anything, for example; your bedroom, your partner, nature, your pet, your job, yourself, your friend, your kitchen, anything.

And, now you focus on this part of your life and see the little atomic parts of it that you can be thankful for.

Let's take the example of a bedroom that I also mention in my Attitude of Gratitude course and find the things that we can be grateful for in it.

Now, there might not be anything extraordinary in your bedroom that you see and sleep in every night. But, imagine if it wasn’t there, and think of each individual atom that makes it home for you.

Let's make a gratitude list with the things we can be thankful for in a bedroom:

  • Think of the walls that give you a space just for you.
  • Think of the windows that let soothing wind and sunlight in.
  • The curtains create soft light in the room, ensure privacy, and gently sway with the air.
  • The floor that you stand upon and how reliable it is.
  • The closet lets you keep your clothes and make more space in your room.
  • The lightbulb illuminates in the dark.
  • The buttons make it so easy to control the environment of the room.
  • The bed is always available for you to rest on.
  • The comfortable mattress supports your sleep and physical health.
  • The cool and relaxing feeling of clean bedsheets.
  • The support of pillows.
  • The bedside table that keeps all the things you want near.
  • The door that connects you to the rest of your house and also allows you to choose when you want to be with yourself only.
  • The sense of assurance that the lock on that door gives you.
  • The photographs on the walls relive golden memories.

There is such an incredible possibility in your bedroom alone. We just listed 15 things we can be grateful for in your bedroom alone and there's a lot more in it.

Imagine, if we searched for all the tiniest things and moments to feel grateful for, we'd never run out of ideas.

Before asking for more, let's appreciate all that we have, and let's focus on the tiny bits that make up and support the life we live.

What are you grateful for?

Alright then, let's dive into more ideas for things that you can be grateful for in your life here:

Things to Be Grateful For

Here are some of the things you can be thankful for:

"I am thankful for..."

  • Your morning coffee/tea
  • A healthy breakfast
  • That movie that always makes you laugh
  • When your hands are full and someone opens the door for you
  • Your good health
  • Your close friends
  • Cute animal videos
  • Warm sunshine on winter days/cool wind on hot summer days
  • The senses that make you experience the world
  • Funny people, always a blessing!
  • A secret joke between you and your friend
  • The moment when your food comes at a restaurant
  • When your favorite song comes on the radio right at the perfect time
  • Tears to express your deepest emotions
  • A friend’s face after you surprised them
  • Oxygen for life
  • Transportation
  • Comfortable clothes
  • Your ability to help
  • Kind strangers
  • A warm, cozy blanket on chilly nights
  • A great meal with your loved ones
  • Excitement for adventures
  • A relaxing bath
  • Winning at a game
  • Sacrificing for love
  • Your favorite school teacher
  • Handwritten letters
  • A relaxed weekend
  • Fresh morning air
  • Deep conversations
  • Feeling understood
  • Stories that fascinate you
  • Free learning resources
  • Experience of life

😇 Tip : To really level up your gratitude practice, I recommend that you maintain a gratitude journal . It'll really shift your perspective by making small steps every day.

Gratitude list of unique things to be thankful for

  • Google search engine
  • Food delivery partners
  • Sour candies
  • Healthy nails
  • Hair blowing in the wind
  • Handmade jewelry
  • Sweet new people
  • Comfortable jeans
  • Flexible body
  • Typing speed
  • Spellchecker
  • Smooth keyboard
  • Shiny tables
  • Funny videos
  • Soothing voices
  • Discovering new songs you like
  • Cracking the mystery before anyone else
  • Automatic save functionality in software
  • Good recommendations
  • The excitement of an upcoming wedding
  • Shared nostalgia
  • The moment you wake up in the morning and know you have more time to sleep
  • Compliments
  • Hot/cool showers
  • New recipes
  • A great dinner
  • Fresh fruits and veggies
  • Clean sheets
  • Being around someone you like
  • Resolution of conflict
  • Moments of happiness
  • Having money
  • Giving gifts
  • Being understood by a friend
  • Awareness of being in the present moment
  • Realization of how far you've come
  • A good workout
  • Feeling healthy
  • Good health of the people you love

So, what do you say? We have so many things to feel grateful for. Go ahead and write in your gratitude journal! 💖

Here's to gratitude for the little things!

Continue Reading: 40 Ways to Show Your Partner You Love and Appreciate Them

Aarushi Tewari

Aarushi Tewari

The writer and affirmations speaker at Gratitude, Aarushi believes that one of the most effective ways of feeling inner peace is by being grateful and having a loving self-relationship.

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Essays About Gratitude: Top 5 Examples and 7 Writing Prompts

Writing essays about gratitude is a way to show appreciation and recognize kindness. See our top examples and prompts you can use as a guide for your essay.

I’m not outspoken, and everyone close to me knows this. However, this one time, a family friend visited us and gave me a set of paintbrushes for my birthday. I thanked them, but that didn’t feel enough as they went out of their way to pick high-quality brushes and deliver them in person, even if we weren’t close. That kind lady wanted me to pursue my interest in painting, and I have felt grateful to her ever since. 

For those like me who can’t fully express gratitude through words, it becomes an intimidating task to even write about it. After all, essays about gratitude require finesse and sincerity that are hard to prove through pen and paper.

5 Essay Examples

1. the expression of gratitude by writer rosalyn, 2. a good life is a gratitude, meaning, and love by anonymous on ivypanda.com, 3. the magical power of gratitude and saying ‘thank you’ by anonymous on gradesfixer.com, 4. essay on gratitude by anonymous on toppr.com  , 5. meaning and importance of gratitude by anonymous on mystudentsessay.com, 1. the true meaning of gratitude, 2. expressing gratitude, 3. the benefits of practicing gratitude, 4. culture and gratitude expression, 5. values and gratitude, 6. the boundaries of gratitude, 7. practicing gratitude: a day in my life.

“… Participants who expressed gratitude in a close relationship would have greater relationship satisfaction than those who did not express gratitude.”

The essay contains a compilation of information from various studies to discuss the effect of expressing gratitude verbally. Rosalyn discovers that the rate of relationship satisfaction increases after expressing gratitude and leads to lasting relationships and reduced divorce rates. 

Rosalyn notes how expressions of gratitude act as positive reinforcement, encouraging the recipient to be more inclined to agree to do favors. For instance, many sellers include gifts and discounts with purchases to express gratitude and cultivate repeat buyers.

“… A good life is a complex term with different meanings, but all the interpretations have a particular point in common – well-being is associated with gratitude, meaning, and love.”

The author defines the “good life” as spiritual contentment and shares their opinion and experiences as a clinical mental health counselor. They remark that gratefulness can signify healthy well-being since it means an individual is intent on what they have instead of what they don’t. Further, people filled with gratitude can find meaning in life in time and with practice. 

The counselor also mentions the importance of having someone who truly loves and cares for us to remind us to be grateful even in the darkest times of our lives. In conclusion, the writer reiterates that it’s complicated to define what a good life entails, but all definitions directly connect to gratitude, meaning, and love.

“I discovered a secret about life, and as a result of my discovery, one of the things I began to do was practice gratitude each day, to say “thank you!” more. As a result of this, everything in my life changed, and the more I practiced gratitude, the more miraculous were the result.”

To demonstrate the positive benefits of feeling and expressing gratitude, the author narrates their experiences in this short essay. They talk about their financial, relationship, and health problems and how they were all resolved when they started to be grateful. The writer considers this magical, but a change in their perception helped them overcome their problems.

“… Gratitude is the most essential human expression which proves that humans are sensible and have emotions. Moreover, this emotion does not just limit to humans but also animals. Often, we see them express their gratitude and return the favour.”

In this essay, the author identifies gratitude as a beautiful way of enriching our existence. It’s a vital skill that every person should learn and practice to invite goodness and get various benefits, such as stronger relationships and a happier outlook. The writer believes it’s crucial to always express gratitude to inspire others and remember that humans are emotional beings.

“Gratitude leads to feelings of happiness and satisfaction as it increases awareness that others have done something nice for you. As a result, gratitude and happiness become mutually reinforcing and build upon each other. Science shows that gratitude is a particular emotion, since it consists of a feeling of appreciation that does not require specific objects or actions which instigate it.”

This essay focuses on the importance and benefits of practicing gratitude which the author refers to as “the greatest gift to humanity.” Gratitude is vital as it helps us recognize positive and negative things to assist us in finding meaning and purpose in life. The author states that practicing mindfulness and meditation brings about gratitude that will improve various aspects of one’s life.

7 Prompts for Essays About Gratitude

Essays About Gratitude: The true meaning of gratitude

Gratitude is one of the most salient topics to write about and discuss. It’s a positive emotion we feel whenever we receive something that demonstrates the giver’s sincerity. Use this prompt to discuss the meaning of gratitude with your readers in two ways. First, explain its definition according to dictionaries and experts. Then use your personal experiences to illustrate what gratitude means to you.

“Thank you!” is a simple but effective phrase to express appreciation to those who try to improve your day. For this prompt, list more ways to express gratitude through verbal communication or actions. Add tips on showing gratitude while considering important factors such as the event or context, relationship to the recipient, and suitability of the method.

Focus your essay on the advantages one can get from practicing gratitude; use this prompt to encourage your readers to acknowledge the good things happening to them. Provide relevant research and examples that show the benefits of demonstrating gratitude.

For help with this topic, read our guide explaining what is persuasive writing .

Essays About Gratitude: Culture and gratitude expression

The environment an individual grows up in plays a big part in how they express gratitude. Explore different cultures worldwide and discuss how beliefs, religion, and culture can affect how groups display gratefulness. Show your reader’s how different cultures communicate gratitude, including the common reasons they do so. Then, share how you were taught to convey gratitude in your culture.

Exercising gratitude trains us to establish positive values such as enthusiasm and optimism. Use this prompt to identify and discuss the values ​​one can gain from learning about gratitude. Discuss the values you developed while practicing gratitude to make your essay relatable. You might also be interested in these essays about overcoming challenges .

Although gratitude is one of the most positive emotions we can experience, it should still be practiced within healthy boundaries. Such limitations should be applied when a person develops extreme beliefs involving gratitude. An example is over-optimism, where an individual becomes unrealistically optimistic to the point that they ignore the existence of their problems. In your essay, discuss how to practice gratitude in a way that positively influences your life.

In this essay, reflect on a typical day in your life and highlight the parts that make you feel thankful. This prompt will help you appreciate the trivial things in your life and teach your readers how to treasure even the minor things in their lives. For example, having the opportunity to wake up and live another day already deserves your gratitude. Discuss all the things that you are grateful for in this heartfelt essay.

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Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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Gratitude Essay Examples

An essay on gratitude can be an excellent opportunity to reflect on the things in life that we often take for granted. It’s a chance to acknowledge the people, experiences, and things that have made a positive impact on our lives. If you’re struggling to get started, here are some gratitude essay examples and tips to help you craft a perfect essay on gratitude.

One way to approach an essay on gratitude is to reflect on specific instances where you’ve experienced gratitude in your life. For example, you might write about a time when someone went out of their way to help you or when you received unexpected kindness from a stranger. These examples can help you illustrate the power of gratitude in our lives and show how it can change our perspective on the world.

Another approach is to write about the benefits of gratitude. Research has shown that practicing gratitude can improve mental health, boost happiness, and even enhance physical health. You can explore these benefits in your essay and provide examples of how you’ve experienced them in your own life.

If you’re a college student, consider writing a gratitude college essay. In this essay, you can reflect on how college has shaped you and the opportunities it has provided. You might write about a professor who inspired you or a project that challenged you in new ways. By expressing gratitude for your college experience, you’ll be able to showcase your growth and appreciation for the opportunities you’ve had.

Overall, an essay on gratitude can be a powerful tool for personal growth and reflection. By exploring gratitude in your life, you’ll be able to recognize the good things that are often overlooked and find ways to cultivate more gratitude in your daily life. Use the gratitude essay examples and tips above to craft a perfect essay on gratitude and let your gratitude shine through your words.

The Power Of Gratitude In Our Lives

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Being Thankful And Expressing Gratitude

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Gratitude: Knowledge of Giving Thanks in Life

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Gratitude and the Act of Giving on Valentine's Day

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Thank You Day: Remembering the Feeling of Gratitude

The 'Thank you day' takes place all over the world on the eleventh of january. This unique day reminds us to demonstrate our thankfulness to those people whose presence in our lives is perfectly meaningful. There exist many people in our life, but there are...

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How Can the Virtue of Gratitude Enchanse Your Career Growth

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3. Gratitude: Knowledge of Giving Thanks in Life

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A non-cheesy guide to gratefulness: What to read and watch

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  • Read: “ A Serving of Gratitude May Save the Day .” This 2011 article in The New York Times shares that gratitude “has been linked to better health, sounder sleep, less anxiety and depression, higher long-term satisfaction with life and kinder behavior toward others, including romantic partners.” From there, writer John Tierney consults psychologists whose work falls in the area of gratitude for tips on how to feel more of it during the hectic Thanksgiving season. It’s a very cool survey of the research going on in this area. .
  • Watch: Jimmy Fallon’s Thank You Notes . In this long-standing segment on Friday night episodes of Late Night with Jimmy Fallon , the star of the show picks up a pen and writes thank you notes as piano music swells in the background. In recent episodes, Fallon has given sarcasm-tinged thank yous to peer pressure and the nub at the bottom of a banana. In fact, this segment is so popular that it even became a book. As the Amazon page reads , “Jimmy Fallon is very thankful. And in this first book to come from his TV show, he expresses his gratitude for everything from the light bulb he’s too lazy to replace to the F12 button on his computer’s keyboard.” Yes, there is a volume 2 . .
  • Read: “ Are You Thankful or Are You Grateful? ” And in an essay commissioned for Thanksgiving 13 years ago, David Steindl-Rast describes the difference between thankfulness and gratefulness. “In a moment of gratefulness, you do not discriminate. You fully accept the whole of this given universe, as you are fully one with the whole,” he writes. “In the very next moment, when the fullness of gratitude overflows into thanksgiving, the oneness you were experiencing is breaking up. Now you are beginning to think in terms of giver, gift and receiver. Gratefulness turns into thankfulness. This is a different fullness. A moment ago you were fully aware; now you are thoughtful. Gratefulness is full awareness; thankfulness is thoughtfulness.” .

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  • Read: Zen Habits . In 2005, Leo Babauta — a father of six kids then living in Guam (he’s now in San Francisco) — radically changed his life. He began focusing on spirituality by honoring his emotions, his physical well-being, and the current moment. Soon after, he began this blog, in which he shares his experiences and offers tools for becoming more mindful. Like this : “Put the word ‘Breathe’ as a screensaver or desktop pic, or put it up as a note on your wall or fridge or on your desk. Then do it every time you see the word.” .
  • Listen to: Tara Brach’s podcast . After college, Tara Brach spent 10 years in an ashram, then attended a Buddhist Insight Meditation retreat. “I knew that this was a path of true freedom,” she says on her website . Now armed with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and a five-year Buddhist teacher training program, Brach works as a psychotherapist and meditation teacher and runs the Insight Meditation Community of Washington, DC. She offers free recordings of her beautiful talks and meditations. They are also  available on iTunes . .
  • Read: thxthxthx: Thank Goodness for Everything . Leah Dietrich is brilliant — and hilarious — at being thankful for the mundane. On what look like oversized Post-It notes, she scrawls hand-written thank you notes that raise a chuckle. This effort started as a blog , then became a book and a Twitter feed . A classic, to give you a taste: “Dear Words, Thank you for letting me make art with you. I can’t really draw well, so you’re a big help. See you soon. Love, Leah.” .

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  • Watch: Room to Breathe . The 2012 documentary Room to Breathe follows a class of San Francisco middle school students as they undergo training by a therapist from Mindful Schools . This Oakland-based nonprofit helps make mindfulness a part of education, defining it as “a particular way of paying attention. It is the mental faculty of purposefully bringing awareness to one’s experience.” .
  • Read: It’s Easier Than You Think . In this book, Sylvia Boorstein , a Jewish-Buddhist meditation teacher and psychotherapist, demystifies spirituality and mindfulness. “Being a meditator and developing equanimity do not mean becoming weird,” she writes at the outset. The idea: spirituality and mindfulness can coexist with drinking coffee or being a passionate football fan. It isn’t about the tools you use or what you do, it’s how you do it. .
  • Study: A step-by-step guide to gratefulness . David Steindl-Rast and his colleagues run Gratefulness.org, a website that is full of wisdom on the art of thankfulness. One of the most interesting things on the site: this collection of articles, which is designed as a journey of personal reflection or as a guide for group study.

This piece was originally posted in November of 2013. It was updated for Thanksgiving 2014.

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Here Are 61 Things To Be Grateful for Today

A serene woman with closed eyes is surrounded by a vibrant floral aura that transitions from cool to warm colors, symbolizing gratitude and peace.

It’s no secret that gratitude has a big impact on our lives.

Whether creating gratitude lists for your self-care routine, writing thank you notes to people who mean a lot to you, or simply dedicating time to reflect on the blessings in your life during the holidays, gratitude shows up in small and big ways for all of us. 

In fact, embracing gratitude can lead to improved mental and physical health and stronger relationships. Seriously — it’s backed by science . 

A serene woman with closed eyes is surrounded by a vibrant floral aura that transitions from cool to warm colors, symbolizing gratitude and peace.

And while it’s always fun to sit around the Thanksgiving dinner table in November sharing what we’re thankful for, gratitude truly can be a meaningful approach to life that creates a profound impact on you and those around you.

If you’re getting started on your gratitude journey, or you’re looking for a little extra inspiration during a difficult time, we’re here to remind you of some of the most beautiful things in life to be grateful for.

Gratitude List: Examples of Things To Be Thankful For

Start with the big picture! Being alive — and all the ups and downs that come with it — is a gift. 

No matter the type of love you’re currently experiencing — self-love, love for your spouse, love for your friends, love for your very cute dog — there’s nothing quite like it. 

Living in a human body means we can never take our health for granted. Health, and existing in our human bodies, looks different for everyone, but there is always something amazing about these flesh suits we can be in awe of.

Besides, is there anything more life-affirming than breathing through your nose after you’ve been sick and stuffy for a week? Let’s take a moment for good health — no matter how you define it.

People define family in a lot of different ways, but most of us agree on one thing: These are the people who love and support you unconditionally.

Whether you’re sending your gratitude to the lifelong friend you’ve known since kindergarten or your newest pal you met the other day, they deserve every bit of it.

Having a roof over your head, the comforts of a space you’ve curated for yourself, and the space to feel grounded and nurtured is truly a blessing. Bask in it. (And consider finding a way to help someone without a home .)

A Job or Income

Here’s to good work done well. No matter what you do, your work has value . 

Nutritious Food

Let’s be real: There are few things on earth that deserve our gratitude more than a delicious meal. Having access to nutritious food is a privilege that deserves to be acknowledged.

Clean Water

Another privilege? Having access to clean, running water. Whether you’re drinking from the tap, watering your plants, or taking a hot bath, take a moment to be mindful of this gift.

You don’t need to stream a nature documentary to see the wonders of the natural world. Being able to step outside and enjoy the beauty of trees, wildlife, or a gentle breeze? Second to none. 

If you’re a devoted pet parent, your furry friends are already at the top of your list. Whether you’ve adopted a dog , love to spoil your cat senselessly, or simply enjoy watching dog videos on TikTok , pets absolutely deserve your gratitude.

Whether or not you were in attendance at the Eras Tour , there’s no doubt that music is one of the most special human experiences we can have.

The healing power of art cannot be overstated. Break out the crayons and let the gratitude roll.

Two tickets to “Barbie,” please. 

In all seriousness, movies, films, and documentaries of all kinds are such vital pieces of culture. 

Books are foundational to our lifelong learning journeys. Regardless of if you prefer fiction or nonfiction, books will leave you feeling more human — and more educated.

Having access to education is a gift that keeps on giving. Your gratitude may extend to teachers , a certain course you took this semester, or simply a lesson learned that changed the trajectory of your life for good.

What are our educational pursuits without libraries ?! These institutions are vital to social and cultural development, educational opportunities, and history.

While you may want to throw your phone out of a moving vehicle most days, the advances of modern technology are typically net-good. 

Health Care Providers

When it comes to managing our health , we need help. No matter what kind of health care you rely on — therapy , regular doctor’s visits, or just your semi-annual dental check-up — we wouldn’t be where we are today without these heroes.

The freedom and ability to visit new places anywhere in the world? Yeah, that’s a miracle.

Video games? Collecting stamps? Crocheting? Dragon boating? Ballet? No matter your hobbies or interests, having something to do and explore is always worth celebrating. 

Do you live free from fear of violence? Can you lock your doors and breathe easy every night? Give thanks for your safety. 

A sense of belonging is integral to a full human experience. Consider your neighbors , friends, and even your favorite barista when you feel grateful for your community.

Good Weather

We know; good weather can be hard to come by these days. While we should always be working to solve the climate crisis , it’s also okay to enjoy the moment when you get a lovely weather day.

A healthy dose of Vitamin D is nothing to scoff at. Turn your face to the sun and savor it (preferably while wearing SPF). 

A Comfortable Bed

Having a sanctuary to rest , relax, and dream is one of the single greatest pleasures of life. 

When was the last time you laughed so hard you cried? Be grateful for all of those moments — and resolve to make more of them.

Plants and Flowers

Green Thumb or not, we can all appreciate the beauty of flora. Tell your houseplants you love ’em.

A Fulfilling Career

If you’re fortunate enough to have a job you truly enjoy, count your blessings. 

In the busyness of every day, it can feel like time is slipping through our fingers. Take a moment to slow down and embrace the time you really do have at your disposal.

Whether you’re just appreciating your downtime, or falling into a deep sleep, the ability to rest and relax is a privilege many of us take for granted.

Your 5 Senses

Embrace all the things you can see, smell, taste, hear, and feel. We challenge you to try to be even more mindful of your senses and surroundings today.

Kind Strangers

A random act of kindness goes a long way. We’ve all been on the receiving end of the generosity of strangers, and even the little things can make us believe in humanity.

It’s easy to forget how lucky we are to have warm and reliable closets full of clothes — especially when it feels like we have “nothing to wear.” Reframe this thinking to find gratitude in your unique, protective wardrobe.

Whether they’re your kiddos, nieces, nephews, or beloved family friends, children bring out the best in us all. Bask in their curiosity and innocence!

Being enveloped in a warm embrace? That’s the good stuff.

Mentors and Role Models

Think about the people you look up to. How have they helped shape who you are today? How will they influence who you become tomorrow?

Learning From Mistakes

The ability to grow and learn from our past experiences shows how resilient and expansive we all really are.

Deep Conversations

Is there anything better than a long conversation over drinks? Didn’t think so.

Forgiveness

The capacity we have to forgive others — and be forgiven — is a beautiful thing. Consider where you can find peace in your relationships as you embark on your gratitude practice.

Whether you practice a certain religious tradition or are simply trusting in the ways of the world, faith is a deeply personal and spiritual gift many embrace. 

Inspiration

Think about a time when you felt a burst of creativity, or you felt called to action by a really great book. Inspiration is everywhere , as long as we open ourselves up to it.

It doesn’t matter if you consider yourself “creative” in the traditional sense, with paints or choreographed dance routines. We all have a playful, curious nature to be grateful for.

Holidays and special traditions are a great excuse to gather and find time for what’s most important: one another. What a special occasion to practice gratitude!

Happy Memories

Have you ever gone on a bittersweet deep dive of your camera roll to look back fondly on your greatest memories? The overwhelming feeling — besides nostalgia — is usually gratitude. 

The Memory of Loved Ones Who Have Passed

While looking back on the lives of loved ones who have died, we may certainly be overcome with grief — but we often find in that grief a wave of gratitude. 

If you have a brave, intrepid spirit, you’re probably quick to answer the call of adventure . Give thanks for all of the exciting expeditions you’ve encountered — and all the lessons you’ve learned along the way.

One thing that keeps us feeling grateful every day? The fact that there is no shortage of good news . Even though reading the news these days can feel overwhelming and scary, we find peace knowing that there is always someone — or something — to celebrate. 

New Beginnings

Whether you’ve just come out of a long relationship, moved to a new place, or are starting a new chapter in your life, there is something so delicate and special about new beginnings. Take a moment to find gratitude for them!

Transportation

You don’t have to be U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg to be grateful for transit! If you have a car to drive, a bike to ride, or easy access to a bus or train, you have a reason to be grateful. 

The Internet

Yeah, we know it’s a hellscape. But it’s also where all the cute animal videos are. Plus, it’s definitely a privilege to be connected to the world and have access to information.

Being a resilient person means you have endurance, flexibility, and grace for yourself in the face of life’s challenges. Honor the version of you that has gotten you this far. 

We’re big believers in Mister Rogers’ classic quote : “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” 

It’s true! Helpers are people who step in to make a difference in other people’s lives, just because it’s the right thing to do. 

Financial Stability

We know that money is complicated, and we all have different experiences providing for ourselves and others . But if you are someone who currently has access to everything you need through financial stability, that’s definitely a reason to be thankful.

We’ve all benefited from the kindness and generosity of someone else. Practice gratitude by passing more generosity along. 

Take a moment to breathe in the air around you. And… make sure you install those air purifiers, baby! 

When was the last time you stopped to think about all of the beautiful colors surrounding you? We’ll wait here while you do that now. 

Receiving Gifts

We all know a rockstar gift-giver who makes us feel special and loved every time they give us a gift. We know it can feel awkward to embrace something so generous, but soak in the gratitude. You deserve it!

Ever heard the phrase “TGIF?” We don’t care who you thank, but the sweet relief of weekends is absolutely worthy of your gratitude. 

No matter how you define freedom — whether it’s tied to your nationality or identity, or if you are working on your own emotional and spiritual journey to embrace independence — there is nothing more sacred than your liberation.

Self-love goes a long way. Give yourself a big squeeze and remember to sit in the appreciation you have for every version of you.

Here are some ideas for your gratitude list.

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The Joy Within

What Are You Grateful For Today?

  • Post author: Kyle Greenfield
  • Post published: November 17, 2020
  • Post category: Increase Happiness
  • Post comments: 0 Comments

Gratitude is hands down one of the most important habits to develop if you want to radically increase the level of happiness, fulfillment, and satisfaction that you feel for your life.

But, often, we know that taking time to feel grateful is important, but we forget to actually do it.

Or, we rush through the practice, and don’t get the full benefit from it.

So, take a few minutes, right now, to ask yourself a simple but essential question: What are you grateful for today?

Leave a comment below with your answer, but if you’re feeling stuck, I’m going to share a few ideas and tips to get you started.

10 Things To Be Grateful For Anytime, Anywhere

Everyone has days when they feel down. It’s 100% normal. The question is: when you recognize you need to step back and take a few moments to re-center, what do you do?

These 10 things are simple, everyday ideas that I think anyone can use to find a feeling of gratitude, in just a few minutes.

  • Your breath. This is #1 on the list for a reason. Focusing on your breath is one of the fastest and easiest ways to calm your mind, and bring your attention back to the well-being that is always emanating from within you.
  • Fresh air: Not only do you have the ability to breathe fully, but the air you take in is clean and nourishing. Take time to appreciate that today.
  • Your Body. No matter what the state of your physical health, you can always choose to become more mindful of your body, and feel more present in your physical form. This helps to revitalize and energize you.
  • Healthy Food. If you’re reading this, chances are you’re not dying of hunger. We often forget to appreciate how abundant simple things (like good food) are in our modern world.
  • Clean Water. Similar to the food you eat, we often take the availability of wate for granted. Take a few seconds to appreciate just how easily you can run the tap and have a clean drink.
  • Smiling. Take a few seconds, right now, to bring your attention to the set of your face. Allow your lips to widen into a smile, and just observe and revel in how soft and effortless it makes you feel. Smiling has incredible benefits for both the mind and body.
  • Friends and Family. Sometimes, we get so wrapped up in drama with our loved ones, that we forget to acknowledge the many reasons they are important to us, and the role they play in our life. Use your gratitude journal to write about your friends and family, or – better yet – write someone a note to tell them their best traits.
  • A Tree or Flower. One of my favorite sources of gratitude is nature, and nothing beats taking a few moments to sit outside in a quiet setting, but even if you can’t rush off to a park, you can always find a tree or flower to gaze at for a few moments, and soak in the natural beauty of it.
  • Your Thoughts. Another untapped source of gratitude is our thoughts. The presence of our thoughts is constant, and so easy to cast blame on as the source of our problems. Instead, flip your perspective, and learn to thank yourself for your thoughts…whatever they may be.
  • A Hobby, Interest, or Passion. Lastly, I like to use personal interests as an easy gateway to feeling grateful. Hobbies or passions are perfect for this practice, because we usually associate them with being fun, and don’t tie-in as much emotional baggage to them. Simply acknowledge what you like to do, and why you like it.

How To Practice Gratitude

If you need help getting started with your gratitude practice, I recommend the following:

  • Try these easy gratitude exercises.
  • Read more about why gratitude is important from author Shawn Achor.
  • Watch this video. It’s the first part of our Positive Thinking Playbook , and a great introduction to the how and why of positive thinking practices.

what are you thankful for today essay

Kyle Greenfield

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Home / Essay Samples / Life / Thankfulness / The Power of Thankfulness: How Gratitude Has Transformed My Life

The Power of Thankfulness: How Gratitude Has Transformed My Life

  • Category: Life
  • Topic: Thankfulness

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  • Keep a gratitude journal: Write down a list of things that you are thankful for each day, no matter how big or small they may be. This will help you to focus on the positive aspects of your life and develop a sense of appreciation for the many blessings that you have.
  • Express your gratitude to others: Take the time to express your gratitude to the people in your life who have made a positive impact on you. This could be as simple as sending a thank-you note, or taking someone out for coffee to express your appreciation for their friendship or support.
  • Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, without judgment or distraction. By cultivating a sense of mindfulness, you can develop a greater appreciation for the present moment and the many wonders of the world around you.
  • Volunteer your time: Volunteering your time to help others is a powerful way to cultivate gratitude. By giving back to your community and helping those in need, you can develop a greater sense of purpose and meaning in your life.
  • Take care of your body: Taking care of your physical health is an important way to cultivate thankfulness. By nourishing your body with healthy foods, getting enough sleep, and engaging in regular exercise, you can develop a greater sense of appreciation for the amazing capabilities of your body.

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