Everyday Awe Part 2: Growing Gratitude
Welcome to the second post in my new series on Gratitude.
Click here to read the first post, if you missed it!
Over the next few weeks, we'll dive into practices that make gratitude feel less like a “should” and more like a genuine source of joy and inspiration. Each post will explore a research-backed strategy you can use to feel more present, connected, and fulfilled.
Part 2: Growing Gratitude
Today we are busting the myth that we should only practice gratitude in moments of feeling happiness!
When life feels overwhelming—whether it’s personal struggles, collective uncertainty, or the emotional aftermath of events like an election—finding gratitude can seem nearly impossible. But research shows that practicing gratitude during difficult moments isn’t just about finding fleeting happiness. It can help us build resilience, support mental health, and maintain perspective even in the darkest of times. Studies indicate that gratitude in hardship fosters acceptance and emotional stability, allowing us to see beyond the pain and find small lights of hope.
I learned this firsthand in a hospital room when my sister was facing a difficult battle. Our family was there, hearts heavy, feeling helpless as we waited by her side. One afternoon, a kind nurse came in with a handful of leaf-shaped cutouts. She told us that while she couldn’t change our circumstances, she wanted to offer something simple that had brought comfort to other families: creating a “gratitude tree.” She invited each of us to write down one thing we were grateful for that day, no matter how small.
At first, the idea felt strange in the context of worry and exhaustion. But we started writing: one leaf for the kindness of the hospital staff, another for the strength we saw in each other, and another for the glimpse of sunrise through the window. Each leaf added to our collection, growing into a tangible reminder of love and resilience that filled the room with an unexpected sense of calm.
Creating Your Own Gratitude Tree Ritual
In times of collective stress, like post-election uncertainty or any season of personal challenge, a gratitude tree can be a powerful way to acknowledge the blessings we often overlook. It’s a simple practice that grounds us in the present, helping us find moments of peace amid the chaos. Here’s how you can create one at home, at work, or anywhere you gather with loved ones:
Gather your materials: You’ll need paper cut into leaf shapes (you can find templates online or make them yourself), some markers, and either a bare branch, a potted plant, or even a wall space where you can tape the leaves.
Reflect and Write: Each day, take a moment to write down one thing you’re grateful for on a leaf. Encourage family members or friends to do the same. It could be as simple as a morning cup of coffee or a warm blanket.
Grow the Tree: Attach each leaf to your branch or wall. Watch your tree grow as a visual reminder of the things that bring joy and comfort, even in challenging times.
A gratitude tree is more than just a collection of thankful thoughts; it’s a symbol of resilience, a source of support, and a reminder that even in hardship, there is beauty worth noticing. By practicing gratitude in difficult seasons—whether you’re processing personal grief or grappling with societal changes—you find a strength that uplifts you beyond fleeting happiness and brings enduring peace.
This past week, I led a professional learning opportunity for educators where I invited them to create a gratitude tree together as our inclusive welcome activity. If you’re leading a team or organization, this is a simple way to start your meeting on a positive note and foster a sense of connection.
And personally, this ritual holds a special place in my heart. Nine years later, my sister is in great health. Each year since, as a classroom teacher, I’ve incorporated the gratitude tree ritual with my students as a way to honor where my gratitude practice started. This makes a fantastic activity to incorporate into your morning meetings this month!
I invite you to start your own gratitude tree this week. Share your experience on social media or with your friends and family, and inspire others to cultivate gratitude, even during tough times. Let’s grow our trees together and create a community of resilience and hope. Tag me in your photos and stories so we can celebrate the little joys together!
P.S. If you’re looking to deepen your gratitude practice even further with a community of like-minded individuals, join me for our 21-Day Gratitude Challenge. It’s a guided journey to help you discover new ways to embrace gratitude, build resilience, and connect with others. Comment GRATITUDE and I’ll send you the details!
