101 Simple Things to be Grateful for in Life

by | Jul 26, 2020

Life is busy. Most of us are spread thin, wear too many hats, and are so worried about our to-do list that we forget to stop and smell the roses.

Juggling too many balls makes us miserable and anxious.

BUT what if I told you that you can be happy right now no matter what’s going on in your life?

Enter gratitude!

The benefits of gratitude is well-documented and MIGHTY!

There are ALWAYS things to be grateful for in life even during difficult times.

Gratitude is a wonderful, free, natural dose of medicine that you can whip out at any time.

It’s guaranteed to give you a boost of happiness and leave you feeling more grounded.

 

WHAT IS GRATITUDE?

It’s acknowledging and feeling thankful for the good in your life (tangible and intangible).

 

WAYS TO PRACTICE GRATITUDE

  • use a gratitude journal
  • write a gratitude letter
  • set reminders in your phone
  • volunteer
  • pay it forward
  • gratitude meditations
  • write a gratitude list
  • tell someone how much you appreciate them
  • take part in a gratitude challenge
  • practice mindfulness
  • use gratitude affirmations
  • read inspiring gratitude quotes

 

FAVORITE GRATITUDE QUOTE

“Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” – Robert Brault

 

Alright, let’s get to it. Here are 101 things to be grateful for in life…

 

1. NICE WEATHER

Who doesn’t enjoy good weather?!

Maybe nice weather for you is a crisp fall day (that’s my jam!), a hot sunny afternoon, a splash in the puddles kinda day, or a dusting of snow.

Whatever your version of nice weather is, soak it up and be grateful you get to experience it!

 

2. A GOOD BOOK

If you’re a book worm like me I have a feeling this will be on your gratitude list!

Books can take you to far off places, teach you things, and change your life. What’s not to appreciate?!

 

3. THE INTERNET

The fact that you are reading this confirms that you have access to the internet, which is a BIG deal!

How crazy is it that we walk around with the internet in our pockets and purses?!

Given that most of the world still don’t have access to the internet, it’s truly a blessing that should not be overlooked.

 

 

4. SPARE TIME

Um, enough said? Most of us are spread thin these days so any extra time is a gift!

 

5. A WARM CUP OF COFFEE

I don’t know about you, but I’m a java nut! My morning isn’t the same without a cup of joe!

I’m grateful for every single sip and have immense gratitude to whoever invented the preset function on coffee makers. Waking up to the smell is just the best.

I know some of you out there can relate!

 

6. YOUR HEALTH

If you’re in good health you have a LOT to be grateful for. You truly are rich if all parts of your body are functioning as they should.

On the other hand, if your health isn’t great try and be grateful for what parts are working well.

 

7. A GOOD LAUGH

Laughter truly is the BEST medicine. In fact, Harvard Health shared a study that found laughter to be good for the heart! How cool is that?!

Next time you have a laugh that hurts your cheeks be grateful! It’s a huge mood booster and you’re doing your body good!

 

8. A WARM BED

If you’re fortunate to be able to sleep in a warm, comfy bed be grateful. There are a lot of people who go without a bed night after night.

 

9. YOUR JOB

It’s easy to get in a funk and complain about a job. But you might feel different if you didn’t have a job to complain about! It might not be your dream job but in the meantime, it is supporting you!

 

10. ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE

It’s easy to complain about those pesky annual check-ups or preventative yearly mammograms but having access to those services can save your life!

Not everyone has access to healthcare so consider yourself fortunate if you do.

 

11. MONDAY MORNINGS

Yep, I said it! Monday mornings are an opportunity for a fresh start! Kick-off the week on a positive note by being grateful for Monday!

Set some big goals for the week and be grateful for the chance to go out and crush them!

 

12. COMFY SHOES

I’m going to be honest – I hate heels. They look cute but are the least functional and most uncomfortable shoe there is. Period.

I’m so grateful for a comfy flat and cute runner! Who’s with me?!

 

13. GOOD FRIENDS

Having friends you can count on, confide in, and laugh with is a wonderful gift! We are social creatures and as a result, it’s important to our overall well-being to have connections and a sense of belonging.

 

14. PAST MISTAKES

They are the best learning teachers! Mistakes allow us to grow and that is what life is about!

Next time you make a mistake, brush the dust off and try and practice some gratitude for the lesson learned.

 

15. FRESH, CLEAN AIR

If you’re fortunate to live in a place where the air is safe to breathe don’t take it for granted. There are lots of places in the world with poor air quality that poses health risks.

 

16. CLEAN WATER

It’s quite simple – if you can drink water out of your tap you are extremely fortunate!

 

17. RUNNING WATER

This is one that is easily taken for granted but having access to running water is a blessing. Having running water inside of a home is unheard of for a lot of people around the world!

 

18. EDUCATION

This is one I had to constantly remind myself of while completing my master’s program. The workload was intense and there were times where I would complain about it.

BUT education is a privilege! It’s not always enjoyable to go to class or having to buckle down and write an essay but there are MANY people who wish they had the opportunity!

 

19. A SMILE

I don’t know about you but whenever I receive a smile it totally boosts my mood! One of my favorite smiles (besides one from my son) is a smile from a stranger. Something about it warms my heart and I feel immense gratitude.

 

20. At HOME MOVIE NIGHT

There’s something about this that feels so cozy! Being snuggled up under a blanket, popcorn, and a good flick is a simple yet perfect evening!

 

21. YOUR CLOTHES

Clothes are fun! Each day they let you express yourself and help your personality shine through!

On a serious note, your fortunate to have a wardrobe and the option to change your clothing. The next time you say “I have nothing to wear” take a moment to be grateful for the clothing you do have.

 

22. SIBLINGS

Siblings are the first friends we have and if you’re lucky, friends for life! Plus, only they can understand your crazy family the way you do!

 

23. VACATIONS

Having the opportunity to see other parts of the country or world truly is a blessing. The world is such a miraculous place!

It’s also kinda fun to be able to lay back and sip an umbrella drink.

 

24. SUNSETS

No explanation needed.

 

25. TRANSPORTATION

I’m not even talking about having your own car – just transportation in general because having access to any form of a lift is something to be happy about.

Sure, the bus isn’t glamorous by any stretch! But it gets you to where you need to go, such as your job.

 

26. A PLACE TO CALL HOME

I guarantee this is one we all forget to feel thankful for but when you think about it, how amazing is it that you have a place to hang your hat?! It really is a luxury if you think about how many others don’t have this opportunity.

Next time you fling open that door say a big thank you!

 

27. FREEDOM TO MAKE CHOICES

This is an extraordinary blessing that’s often taken for granted. Next time you’re overwhelmed by all the choices you have, try to remember how incredible it is to have the freedom to make choices!

 

28. VACCINES

This one is especially relevant right now during the COVID-19 crisis.

While we don’t have a vaccine for this brutal virus YET we do have vaccines for many others, such as measles, polio, and the flu. This crisis has been a reminder to be grateful for the vaccines that exist!

 

29. ELECTRICITY

How amazing is it that we literally walk over to the wall, flick a switch, and voila there is light?! Pretty cool if you ask me!

 

30. CAKE

I had to throw this one in because, well, who doesn’t love cake?! 😊

 

31. THE EARTH

We live on a planet floating in outer space!!!!! Stop right now and think about that! It’s utterly mind-blowing and I’m so grateful for all this beautiful planet does for us.

 

32. YOUR PARENTS

Especially if they’re still living! Pick up the phone next time they call because one day you will miss those calls.

 

33. CELL PHONES

If you have a cell phone (aka mini-computer in your pocket) be thankful! How incredible is it that you can call anyone, anywhere, at any time wherever you are! Cell phones also help keep you safe and you can peruse the internet whenever you feel like it. Incredible.

 

34. ACCESS TO HEALTHY FOOD

There are a lot of neighborhoods that are “food deserts”, meaning that they don’t have access to nutritious foods

 

35. GOALS

Be thankful that you have the option to pursue your goals. Not everyone has this freedom.

 

36. MUSIC

Music can get you through tough times, make you feel positive emotions, and get your body moving. All the things

 

37. A GYM MEMBERSHIP

This should resonate with all you gym rats! But, anyone who can afford a membership or that has access to one can practice gratitude for it.

 

38. A GOOD GLASS OF WINE

I’m sure most of us can agree on this

 

39. YOUTUBE

You can learn ANYTHING on Youtube! It’s also a great source of entertainment.

 

40. THE FALL

I’m obsessed with the fall. Leaves crunching, brisk air, pumpkin scented candles, pumpkin lattes – all the things!

 

41. GOOGLE

What would we do without Google?!

 

42. CLEAN SHEETS

Getting into a bed with crisp clean sheets is lovely after a long day

 

43. ALL THINGS SELF-DEVELOPMENT

Books, coaches, podcasts, etc. All things self-development has the power to change your entire life for the better!

 

44. YOUR CHILD(REN)

Hug them extra tight today. You can also learn a lot from them. They enjoy simple pleasures in life. Let that be a reminder t be grateful for the small things.

 

45. BLOGGING COURSES

This is for all my fellow bloggers. Most of us wouldn’t have known where to start without the help of a good blogging course

 

46. NATURE

Nature is the perfect way to clear your mind and feed your soul

 

47. LIFE

Every day above the ground is a good day!

 

48. THE PRESENT MOMENT

It’s magical and will transform your life

 

49. EXERCISE

If you’re able to exercise it means you’re able to move your body. That’s a huge thing to feel grateful for.

 

50. LIVING IN A COUNTRY FREE OF WAR

If you live in a country where you are safe from war you’re extremely fortunate.

 

51. SOCIAL MEDIA

It’s a way to connect and can be a fantastic tool if you’re building a business

 

52. A WARM CUP OF COFFEE

There is nothing better first thing in the morning

 

53. A GOOD NIGHTS SLEEP

Adequate rest keeps you mentally and physically healthy

 

54. CLEAR SKIN

A good complexion boosts confidence

 

55. YOUR FAVORITE FOOD

For me it’s Thai. Oh so good! Next time you eat your fav meal try to feel grateful for the experience

 

56. NEW CLOTHES

Fashion is fun and it feels good to put on something new

 

57. A GOOD MAKEUP AND HAIR DAY

It feels amazing to have your make up and hair be on point, doesn’t it?

 

58. THE ABILITY TO TRANSFORM OUR THOUGHTS

All thoughts are optional. It’s incredible that as humans we are able to only choose thoughts that serve us and release those that don’t

 

59. YOU TIME

It’s important to spend time enjoying your own company. It gives us an opportunity to decompress and reflect. Our lives are fast-paced so “you time” is something to feel grateful for

 

60. LAPTOPS

It allows me to blog and for that I’m SO grateful. What can you appreciate about having one?

 

61. SAVING MONEY

Having the ability to save money is a great feeling. You’re fortunate so if you’re able to put away some for your future or a rainy day

 

62. NON-JUDGEMENTAL FRIENDS

Nothing is better than being accepted for who you are.

 

63. MEDICATION

Having access to medical treatment and interventions is a blessing

 

64. TRAVEL

Having the opportunity to see the world is incredible! It’s truly a gift

 

65. SELF-CARE

Whatever rejuvenates you

 

66. A SUPPORTIVE FRIEND

Having a friend to support you through the good and bad is a good feeling. Hang on to these types of friends!

 

67. AMAZON PRIME

I am particularly grateful for Prime! If you’re a mom, you know how hard can be to leave the house to get what you need. It’s also been a way to keep ourselves safe during COVID!

 

68. POSITIVITY

When you’re around positive people it makes you feel good and motivated to be positive as well

 

69. KINDNESS

It feels good to be kind, witness acts of kindness, and receive kindness. Spread it like confetti!

 

70. A SUPPORTIVE BOSS

When you feel supported by your boss it increases your workplace satisfaction. It’s nice to feel appreciated for a job well done!

 

71. TAKEOUT

When you don’t feel like cooking having access to takeout is a convenient option

 

72. BEING ABLE TO VOTE

This is a HUGE thing to feel grateful for! Not everyone around the world has this opportunity

 

73. MEDITATION

There is NO better way to get centered and feel rejuvenated than meditation. It’s my go-to self-care practice! Even a few minutes of it makes a big difference.

 

74. MANI PEDI

It feels good to treat yourself

 

75. WASHER AND DRYER

It’s nice to not have to lug your clothes to a laundry mat

76. GETTING UP EARLY

I know many of you would say the opposite, but I LOVE getting up before the rest of the world. There’s something magical about it.

 

77. FINDING OUT SOMETHING YOU WANT IS ON SALE

Don’t you love when that happens?!

78. WIFI

It’s super frustrating when it goes down. Imagine never having it?!

 

79. A NAP

I’m not a napper but for those of you that are this one is for you!

 

80. SELF-CONFIDENCE

When you feel confident, you’re unstoppable!

 

81. FORGIVENESS

It feels good to forgive and be forgiven

 

82. SHOWERING AFTER A GOOD WORKOUT

It feels amazing, doesn’t it?

 

83. CHRISTMAS MUSIC

If you say you’re not grateful for it, I don’t believe you!

 

84. THE HALLMARK CHANNEL

While we’re talking about Christmas let’s not forget about this holiday staple

85. HAVING THE DAY TO YOURSELF

If you’re a parent this one is especially lovely

 

86. ROSE

Not the flower. Although those are nice too! Rose all day!

 

87. SNOW

Some might disagree (driving in it is definitely a pain!) but you can’t say it’s not beautiful! Nothing beats looking out the window at a winter wonderland

 

88. A “JUST BECAUSE” GIFT

This happened to me today and it brought a huge smile to my face and warmed my heart. A friend sent me a small gift “just because”. I hope this happens to you! It will make you feel loved and appreciated.

 

89. OLD PHOTOS

There’s something sweet and fun about looking at photos from a long time ago. Do yourself a favor and print some out! Don’t leave those gems stuck in phone.

90. EAR PLUGS

I keep them in my purse. Seriously. They’re not only for sleeping! They’re lovely to use when reading or studying at a coffee shop and 100% necessary when flying.

91. ELECTRICITY

Don’t ever take this one for granted. It’s easy to forget how incredible it is since it’s as easy as flipping on a switch. Try to not to only reserve gratitude for it when there is a thunderstorm and it gets knocked out.

 

92. SETBACKS

It might not feel like it at the time, but setbacks make us stronger and teach us valuable lessons.

 

93. YOUR BRAIN

The brain is fascinating! You’re able to plan, think, reflect, etc.  It’s also fascinating that we never stop developing new neuro pathways. That means that we can train our brain to learn and develop new habits for our entire life!

 

94. TIME

Many people have a negative relationship with time. They think there is never enough. That is a scarcity mindset. When you use your time wisely you realize it’s a gift.

 

95. HOLIDAYS

They bring people together and are a ton of fun. You also get to eat some really good food!

 

96. OUTER SPACE

It’s something we don’t give much thought to but stop and think about it for a minute. WOW!

 

97. A NIGHT OUT WITH FRIEND

It’s refreshing and typically full of laughter. Connecting with others feeds our soul.

 

98. THE FEELING WHEN YOU FIGURE SOMETHING OUT

I LOVE figuring stuff out. When you learn how to do something on your own it feels incredible and is a huge confidence boost

99. REACHING A BIG GOAL

When you reach a goal is feels amazing and is cause for a celebration

 

100. A NICE WORKSPACE 

If you have a workspace that inspires you you’re more productive and fee motivated

 

101. YOU

You are amazing! Celebrate and love yourself. You deserve to have all you want in life.

 

That’s all for now, friend!

 

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Jen Ryan