Things You Can Be Thankful For This Year
As the year draws to a close, it’s natural to reflect on the highs and lows, the unexpected turns, and the moments that shaped us. For some, this year might have felt like a whirlwind of change; for others, it may have been a slower, more reflective season. Wherever you find yourself, there’s one constant: there is always something to be thankful for.
Gratitude doesn’t erase pain or challenges, but it helps us find light even in the darkest moments. It’s not about dismissing the hard times—it’s about recognising the gifts that carried us through.
Here are a few things you can be thankful for this year:
1. The Gift of Resilience
This year may have tested you, but you’re still here. Resilience is a quiet strength, one that helps you face challenges, adapt to change, and keep moving forward. Be thankful for the moments you doubted yourself but didn’t give up.
2. The Gift of Friendship
Friends are the family you get to choose. Think about the people who stood by you—the friends who made you laugh, listened when you needed it most, or simply reminded you that you’re not alone. Friendship is one of life’s most beautiful gifts, and every hug, chat, or shared cup of coffee is worth celebrating.
3. The Gift of Time
While we can’t slow it down or rewind it, time is precious. Be grateful for the moments you spent with loved ones, the quiet evenings you gave yourself to rest, and even the seconds you invested in growing as a person.
4. The Gift of Gratitude
Gratitude itself is a gift. It shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have. Maybe you started a gratitude practice this year or found joy in small things—a sunrise, a kind word, or a deep breath. Celebrate those moments.
5. The Gift of Hope
Hope carried you through the hard days. It’s what allowed you to dream of better times and believe in possibilities. Be thankful for the times hope felt like a faint spark but still guided you forward.
6. The Gift of Kindness
Whether you were the giver or the receiver, kindness brightened your days. A stranger’s smile, a loved one’s understanding, or a moment of self-compassion—they all matter. Kindness has a ripple effect that extends far beyond the moment. Always be kind to yourself.
7. The Gift of Forgiveness
Maybe this year, you let go of a grudge or forgave yourself for something that’s been weighing you down. Forgiveness is a gift that frees your heart and creates space for peace.
8. The Gift of Presence
In a world full of distractions, being fully present is no small feat. Be thankful for the moments you were able to connect deeply with yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you. As my father always say, ‘Your presence, not presents’
9. The Gift of Giving
Whether it was a thoughtful present, a warm meal, or simply your time, giving reminded you of what truly matters: love and connection.
10. The Gift of Lessons Learned
Every challenge this year came with a lesson—about yourself, others, or life itself. Be thankful for the wisdom you’ve gained, even if it came from difficult circumstances.
11. The Gift of Small Joys
Sometimes, it’s the little things that mean the most. A favorite song, a beautiful sunset, or a quiet moment with a cup of tea. These small joys have a way of grounding us, reminding us to savor life’s simplicity.
12. The Gift of New Beginnings
As we look toward the new year, be thankful for the chance to start fresh. A blank page awaits, full of opportunities to grow, love, and live fully.
This year, no matter how it unfolded, has given you something to carry forward—something to be thankful for. Take a moment to reflect on the gifts in your life, big and small.
And as we step into a new year, let gratitude light your path, reminding you that even in the hardest seasons, there is always beauty to be found.
