For me, gratitude comes naturally most of the time.
I can find joy in the smallest things, a thoughtful gesture from someone I love, something going my way, or simply looking up at a glowing full moon. These moments keep me connected to nature, to people, and to myself.

I feel lucky that I can look at a butterfly outside my window and instantly feel peace. In that moment, I feel like I’m part of something bigger than myself. It reminds me that my life is precious and worth living.

But I know it’s not like this for everyone. Some people never learned to notice, or value, the little things, and sometimes even the bigger ones.

The first step is to start noticing.

When I ask my students, “What are you grateful for this week?”, the most common answer is:

“I don’t know.”

So I tell them, “It doesn’t have to be something huge. It could be the delicious drink you had with breakfast, wearing your favourite socks, or spending time with someone you love.”

For those who have never practiced gratitude, it can feel awkward or even impossible. Some people are so caught up in their schedules or overwhelmed by life’s challenges that they don’t pause to notice.

Here’s a way to make it easier:
Imagine waking up tomorrow and realising that certain parts of your life are suddenly gone. The phone you use for your alarm? Missing. The coffee you drink every morning? Not there. The family member who always greets you with a smile? Gone.

The point is, if losing something would make you miss it, it’s something to be grateful for now.

Be specific.

Once you know what those things are, write them down. But don’t be vague.

Instead of:
“I’m grateful for coffee.”
Try:
“I’m grateful for my first coffee in the morning because it tastes delicious, and I love the warmth and energy it gives me to start my day.”

The more specific you are, the deeper the appreciation feels. It might be difficult at first, but gratitude is like a muscle – the more you use it, the stronger it gets.

“Gratitude helps you fall in love with the life you already have.”

I recently came across this quote and I love it. It’s powerful because so often we believe we have to make huge changes to be happier. Yes, growth and change are important but so is pausing to acknowledge the beauty of the life you already have.

Once you’ve noticed what you’re grateful for, say it out loud. Tell people. Or show them through your actions. Expressing gratitude strengthens your connections and lifts your own happiness at the same time.

Gratitude could be the change you are looking for.

Gratitude shifts the focus from what’s missing to what’s already here. It invites more joy, spontaneity, and love into your life. It helps you see that happiness isn’t always about what’s next.

If you’ve been moving through life without stopping to notice the good, this is your sign. Look around. Really look. The joys of life are already here… don’t miss them.