Small Ways to Practice Gratitude Every Day
Expressing gratitude doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple text letting someone know you appreciate them, a quick note left on a friend’s locker, or a genuine “thank you” can have a lasting impact on both you and the other person. Sharing appreciation fosters connection and can make people feel seen and valued. Strengthening these connections helps create a positive environment where kindness and gratitude are shared.
Mindfulness and gratitude are closely linked. Taking a moment to pause, breathe, and become aware of what’s happening around you can help you discover things to be grateful for. Whether it’s the smell of fresh cookies, the sound of laughter, or the peacefulness of a quiet moment, being present in the now can help you notice and appreciate life’s small joys. These moments often pass unnoticed when we rush through our day, but being mindful can help us recognize them and cultivate gratitude for even the simplest experiences.
Gratitude is a habit, and like any new habit, it takes practice. It doesn’t need to take a lot of time—just a few minutes each day can have a big impact on your overall well-being. You could try thinking of something you’re grateful for while brushing your teeth, setting a reminder to reflect on your day, or keeping a gratitude note on your phone. These small, consistent efforts make it easier to notice what’s going well in your life, shifting your focus away from the things that aren’t. The more you practice, the more natural gratitude will feel in your daily routine.
Research has shown that gratitude can improve mental health by reducing stress and increasing happiness. When we focus on what we’re thankful for, it helps shift our mindset away from negativity. Instead of dwelling on what’s wrong, gratitude encourages us to appreciate the positives, making them more prominent in our minds. In challenging situations, gratitude can make the difficulties seem less overwhelming. By acknowledging the good in our lives, we can develop resilience and a more positive perspective, even when faced with adversity.
A fun and easy way to track your gratitude is by creating a gratitude jar. Each day, write down one positive thing that happened on a small slip of paper and place it in the jar. Over time, you’ll collect a tangible reminder of all the good moments, big and small, that make up your life. On tough days, you can revisit the jar and read through the notes to remind yourself that even in the most difficult times, there’s still good to be found. The simple act of reflecting on these positive moments can uplift your mood and help you feel more grounded.
It’s also important to show gratitude toward yourself. Often, we’re quick to express appreciation for others but forget to acknowledge our own progress and achievements. Recognizing your own strengths and accomplishments—whether big or small—builds self-confidence and can help you maintain a positive outlook. Maybe you put extra effort into a project, supported a friend through a tough time, or simply got through a challenging day. Taking a moment to appreciate your own hard work and perseverance is just as valuable as appreciating others.
Life in high school can be fast-paced and hectic, but gratitude is a simple way to bring more positivity into your day-to-day routine. It’s not about ignoring difficulties or pretending everything is perfect, but rather about finding the good that exists alongside the challenges. By practicing gratitude, you can make even the busiest, most stressful days feel brighter. Why not start today? Take a second to appreciate something small—whether it’s a quiet moment or a supportive friend—and let someone know you’re grateful for them. You’ll likely find that practicing gratitude not only lifts your spirits but also strengthens your relationships and creates a more positive, supportive environment. Even when life feels overwhelming, there’s always something to be thankful for.
Julia Li - Writer
Julia Li - Editor
