The world, while filled with plenty of joy, is also an unfortunately heavy place. During the holidays, many are reflecting on exactly what they're grateful for, even when times are difficult.
Read on for tips from the West Michigan Woman and Serendipity Media team on how they find their center and recognize gratitude during times of stress.
"Relish in the chaos a bit, because this is the time to make time to be with loved ones. And while it may feel chaotic and overwhelming right now, have some perspective on it because it won't always be this way. Enjoy everything as it is right now, while it's here." – Kasie Smith, President and Publisher, West Michigan Woman/Serendipity Media.
"Something I just heard was rephrasing your hard times or less than ideal moments into, 'What a privilege it is to ...' So things like, 'What a privilege it is to be too full for dessert; what a privilege it is to have to remember to reapply sunscreen on a high UV index day; what a privilege it is to have a warm bed to get out of and a yard to let my dog run outside; what a privilege it is to have clothes I'm indecisive about wearing; what a privilege it is to have a group of friends to organize schedules with.' It just helps to remember that as much as I might not like some aspects of things, they often stem from something good and worth being grateful for." – Kelsey Shoemaker, Marketing Specialist, West Michigan Woman/Serendipity Media.
"Focusing on the simple things has helped remind me of how grateful I am. Things like drinking a warm cup of coffee with my husband in the morning, the fresh smell of that first fall day or the feel of a freshly made bed are just a few. In strange times, getting lost in a good book helps ground me when the world feels chaotic. I am able to shut off reality and get lost in the story. Even when times aren't strange, I am always down for getting lost in a book." – Megan Marshall, Accounting and Operations Specialist, West Michigan Woman/Serendipity Media.
"Go to your higher source, whatever that looks like in your mind. Whether the source of your conflict or your depression is internal or external, you still have to deal with it. Turn off the TV. Do not watch the news. Do not read the newspapers. Get outside. Go for a walk. Hug a tree. Take off your shoes and walk barefoot on the grass, or in the sand. Go to the lake. Sit on the beach. Watch the sunset and bask in the warm glow of the sun. You will energize your body and your soul. Find a positive mantra to repeat when you are outside connecting with nature. We are powerful beings and are capable of so much more than we give ourselves credit for, including finding the courage to 'try again tomorrow.'" – Susan Smalley, Media Sales Consultant, West Michigan Woman/Serendipity Media.
"For me, gratitude is most often found on a long walk. When I get outside, basking in the sun, watching leaves fall, feeling the wind on my face, smelling the fresh air, seeing critters run around, I'm reminded that even with everything else going on, we live on a spectacular planet brimming with life. It makes me feel grateful to be alive to experience it all." – Josh Veal, Managing Editor, REVUE West Michigan/Serendipity Media.
"I try to reframe hard things with the mantra of 'I get to' vs. 'I have to' in order to gain perspective on the things I'm privileged to experience. I also fall down the rabbit hole of nostalgia quite often, so reminding myself that the present is also a time I'll eventually look back on and remember fondly for one reason or another is grounding. Perspective comes often for me by listening to my intuition and what my gut is telling me I need; going on long walks and moving my body in however feels best at the time; and staying engaged with my family, friends, and community. It's energizing to remember there's power in collective action and that we each can each very easily play a part in making a tangible difference in the world around us." – Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor, West Michigan Woman/Serendipity Media.
Courtesy of West Michigan Woman.
Photo courtesy of Sarah Suydam.
