Inquiry Question: What does it mean to “live in the moment,” and how can we actively focus on embracing the little things in life?
Research Step 1: How could practicing gratitude improve our understanding of what’s “ordinary” in day-to-day life?
gratitude: the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.
Gratitude is a practice that can help individuals appreciate things that we usually take for granted. (1) These things could be anything, a wide range from having clean clothes to wear to having the opportunity to learn new things in school. (1) A significant role that improves one’s ability to perform gratitude efficiently is a simple change in mindset. (1) Having an open-mind creates a pathway to new opportunities, which can help someone develop new skills and take on new responsibilities. (1) When you look back on past events, some of the most cherished and memorable moments aren’t the most extravagant, and extraordinary. (1) Instead, they are the small, mundane times where you feel the happiest through everyday-tasks. (1) Little moments in our day like taking a walk, cooking a meal, or catching up with a friend can be very heartwarming. (1) We can discover joy in the little things by changing our attitude from what we lack to what we have. (1)
Some people may find it difficult to incorporate gratitude into their daily lives as times flies, and life simply gets busy. (2) Yet, taking a step back and being able to take a break from the rapid pace of activities, can improve one’s well-being drastically. (2) Many people don’t know that gratitude is very powerful when it comes to strengthening our connections with others. (3) We develop happiness and respect for one another when we thank others for their efforts and kindness. (3) By strengthening our connections to others around us, we can improve both our personal and professional relationships. (3)
There are many benefits that come to people who regularly practice gratitude. (4) According to numerous studies, expressing thankfulness can significantly boost one’s state of mental health. (4) Gratitude may reduce anxiety and depression symptoms by fostering positive emotions. (4) Therefore, regular performance makes it easier to cope with stress, and navigating challenges faced through daily activities. (4) In addition, gratitude can also benefit physical health. (4) People who express gratitude experience less pain and report fewer physical health issues according to research. (4) Social relationships is another great example that can be strengthened throughout gratitude and mindfulness. (4) Fostering a more optimistic state of mind may help with building and improving relationships as you tend to have a better attitude throughout obstacles faced in life when gratitude is a regular habit. (4) These benefits are just to name a few, as this practice is a powerful tool for resilience and personal growth. (4)
So… How can we express gratitude?
“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.” — Melody Beattie
There are many ways to perform and express gratitude. (5) One of the most common ways to practice, is by keeping a gratitude journal. (5) A lot of people like to write journal entries each day, debriefing about the events that unfolded throughout that time. (5) One great addition to a journal, is including three to five things you are grateful for each day. (5) Keep in mind that these points may change each day according to what happened, as you might’ve learned new things and want to express your thankfulness! (5) Another great tip is to take a gratitude walk. (5) Taking a walk makes for a perfect break amidst busy schedules, so why not incorporate a little bit of gratitude as well? (5) As you take a stroll, you can think of a few things that you appreciate at the moment. (5) Here are a few things that might come to mind: The sunlight felt on your skin, the body that allows you to walk freely, and the stunning views you may see while exercising. (5) The beautiful thing about taking a walk is that you are fully aware of your surroundings, making it easier for you to feel fully present in the now. (5) Lastly, try to actively be grateful when doing “ordinary tasks.” (5) When completing chores throughout the house, it may seem exhausting and a waste of time, but in reality, it’s the perfect excuse to express gratitude! (5) Next time you wash the dishes, try to express gratitude for the meal that you have eaten and the access you have to fresh, clean water. (5) When making your bed, appreciate the good night of rest had in a warm, comfortable bed with a roof over your head. (5) When you take a walk outside, give thanks to the sunlight and nature blooming around you. (5) Taking on everyday tasks provides various opportunities to appreciate and acknowledge your daily gifts. (5)
Next time you feel like expressing gratitude, but are unsure of where to start, refer back to these helpful tips, and know that by acknowledging what your grateful for is a big step forward in regards to personal growth!
I hope you picked up a few key points in this Blog Post! Looking forward to my next Blog Post to dissect this subject matter even further!
–Vanessa Vukovic
Resources:
(1) (2025). Lifeinspiration4all.com. https://lifeinspiration4all.com/2024/08/25/the-power-of-ordinary-moments-finding-inspiration-in-everyday-life/
(2) Gratitude: A Radical Approach to Life. (n.d.). Grateful.org. https://grateful.org/resource/gratitude-radical-approach-life/
(3) Fabrega, M. (2009, November 26). How Gratitude Can Change Your Life. Possibility Change. https://possibilitychange.com/gratitude/
(4) the, U. (2024, March 31). ClearVision Psychotherapy & Equine Assisted Therapy. ClearVision Psychotherapy & Equine Assisted Therapy. https://www.clear-vision-psychotherapy.com/blog/rise-with-gratitude-transforming-your-life-one-thankful-moment-at-a-time
(5) Field, J. (2025, May 7). 11 Gratitude Practices to Include in Your Daily Life. Journey-Tree. https://www.journeytreehealing.com/post/11-gratitude-practices-to-include-in-your-daily-life