This post is sponsored by Seattle Christian School.
As we enter November, the month of thankfulness, we are reminded of how much we have. It can often seem like we get trapped in a cycle of comparison and ungratefulness, but we have so much to celebrate. As Seattle Christian School, we love developing a heart of gratitude in all that we do. This month, as you go about you routine, consider taking the extra step to talk about gratitude with your kids.
Thank others. Serve.
Studies have shown that by serving others our gratitude increases. Take a moment to focus on and thank those around you! A group decided to do a study on what increases people’s happiness and they found that when people were encouraged to write a letter to someone expressing gratitude, their happiness increased. Even more, when they called the person on the phone their happiness was even higher! Express your gratitude and you’ll find yourself being more grateful.
Gratitude journal, jar or calendar.
There are many ways to create a gratitude journal, jar or calendar. Each day write down something you are thankful for. We’ve even see people writing the things they are grateful for on a pumpkin and leaving it on the table to read through the month. There are super cute crafts you can do as a family to help spread the joy of gratitude. Take the time to do this each day and you will begin to focus on what you have instead of what you don’t have. The goal is to simply write it down. If all you have is a pen and paper, do it. It doesn’t have to be fancy!
Put down your phone and stay in the moment with your loved ones.
While technology and social media have their place, put it away, take a break and focus on what is right in front of you. The comparison game is strong on social media and it’s good to stop our brain from going there and instead focus on what’s around us. Plus, it shows our kids that technology doesn’t control our lives and help them establish healthy boundaries.
Develop Daily Gratitude Habits
Each day read a devotional during the month of November that focuses your mind on gratitude. Here are a few to get you started! Pray each day that God helps you develop a grateful heart. You might be in a season where it isn’t easy, pray that God would allow gratefulness to seep into your heart.
Talk About Gratefulness
Every night at the dinner table or before bed, talk about gratefulness. As you recount the day with your family, take a moment to voice what has made you thankful in each day. As you hear your family members sharing theirs you will find your heart uplifted.
When you take the moment to build a mindset that focuses first on gratitude you will find a tremendous shift in your life. Try it. This November make it a month of gratefulness. You’ll be glad you did!
Seattle Christian School wants to help you cultivate a lifestyle of gratitude in your home. If you are seeking a Christian education that can give your child the opportunity to discover their gifts, passions and skills while also developing their unique character in Christ, look no further than Seattle Christian School. Find out more and schedule a tour today at https://www.seattlechristian.org/