How many of us ask ourselves this question on a regular basis? Reflecting over the past year, I’ve realized that I don’t ask it enough. Although I may do things to express my thankfulness or show gratitude, sometimes the world is moving so quickly that I don’t take the time for myself to list the important things in my life that I am truly thankful for.
Weeks ago, I listened to a podcast that inspired me to take the time to journal more often. I was inspired to write down my thoughts, my ideas, and my feelings. So, I started to list some of my goals and aspirations both professionally and personally. That led to writing down details about my day, things I enjoyed, things that I didn’t. I would write out motivational thoughts and about things I learned. It felt a little clichéd and a little corny but then I realized how much it was helping me grow. Taking time to read back through the journal brought up past feelings of motivation and happiness. It also helped me relearn things that I may have forgotten and forced me to remember and rethink different ideas or thoughts.
With the holiday season approaching, I started to think about the important things in my life and what I was grateful and thankful for. I didn’t initially plan on sharing this. However, I decided that this might inspire people to take the time for themselves to think about and list the important things in their lives that they are thankful for. When you experience challenging times in your life, it's important to reflect on the things that you most appreciate. When you realize how fortunate you are, your problems feel so small.
The People in my Life
My parents for always being there to support me and for being present in my kids’ lives.
My kids for always looking past my mistakes and for showering me with hugs and kisses regardless of what's happening in our worlds.
My wife for dealing with me daily and for pushing me to be the best version of myself.
My sister for inspiring me to lead by example and candidly letting me know what I need to work on.
Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins who all bring our entire family closer together.
Friends who are there to celebrate the good and wash away the bad.
The athletes I work with for giving me the opportunity to coach them.
Old friends who reach out to see how I’m doing. We all need to be better at this.
Mentors who send me motivational messages to keep going.
My former teammates who turned into my brothers.
All of you who support my business and take the time to read about my thoughts.
“Those Feelings”
When my kids say, “I Love You Dada.”
1st sip of freshly brewed French Press coffee in the morning
Finishing a tough workout, drenched in sweat, knowing you're going to be sore, but feeling accomplished.
Collapsing on the couch to watch a good football game or favorite movie.
Cracking open the 1st beer heading into an extended Holiday weekend. (I have an entire list of my favorite beer situations. I’ll post them one day)
Checking your bank account to see a new paycheck deposited.
Sitting by a bonfire on a brisk fall night.
The spark of a new idea.
The Little Things
Tucking the kids into bed at night.
Freshly washed, crisp bed sheets.
My wife surprising me with my favorite dinner.
A beautiful green mowed lawn.
A steamy hot shower on a cold day.
Falling asleep during a thunderstorm.
Sitting peacefully still and thinking about nothing.
Memories
Time spent with friends and family who have passed.
Seeing my wife for the 1st time on our wedding day.
Playing ball in the backyard with some of my best friends in the world. I miss this a lot.
Friday Night High School Football games and celebrating with teammates after a win.
My kids being born.
Childhood family vacations.
I’m Lucky
To have a supportive family who loves me.
To have healthy, active, and often wild kids who light up my life.
To have a roof over my head, a car to get around, food on the table, and a job that supports my family.
To be in good health.
To have great friends.
There's my list! I can’t wait to add to this list and watch it grow. I hope this inspires others to acknowledge and appreciate the good in their lives. Enjoy the little things, savor those feelings, and hold on to the memories you shared with the special people in your life. And don’t forget to ask yourself: what are you thankful for?
Happy Thanksgiving!
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