Let’s be real- life can be tough. Sometimes it feels like everything is falling apart, but with a little bit of gratitude, you can quickly turn it all around. In fact, by taking just a few conscious breaths and practicing the gratitude exercises below, you can turn fear, anger, or sadness into pure happiness and bliss. With Thanksgiving around the corner, there’s no better time to contemplate the top things to be grateful for in life. Keep reading to see my list!
Think about it: when you’re feeling down, it’s easy to get caught up in all the things that aren’t going right. But, when you shift your focus to the things you’re thankful for, suddenly it doesn’t seem so bad. Gratitude helps you appreciate what you have, rather than constantly striving for more. It helps you see the glass half full instead of half empty.
In addition, gratitude has been scientifically proven to benefit our physical and mental health. It reduces stress and anxiety, improves your mood, and even boosts your immune system. Who knew being thankful could be so good for you?
Gratitude also helps us build stronger relationships. When you appreciate the people and things in your life, you get to connect on a deeper level. You start to see the beauty in the world around you and the people in it.
So, start your gratitude practice today. It will truly make you feel better and appreciate all the things in your life you’ve taken for granted. I’ve attended some of the world’s top meditation and mindfulness retreats, and I’m here to bring you the top 200 things to be thankful for. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why you should make a list of things you’re thankful for
You know what they say, “a little gratitude goes a long way.” But did you know that actually writing down the things you’re thankful for can have an even bigger impact?
Making a list of things you’re grateful for is like hitting the refresh button on your brain. It helps you focus on the good things in your life, rather than getting bogged down by the negative. Plus, it’s a great way to remind yourself of all the blessings you have, even on the tough days.
But here’s the thing, it’s not just about writing down the obvious things like good health, a roof over your head, or a steady job. Sure, those are all important, but it’s also about being thankful for the little things that might go unnoticed. The morning sunshine, a cup of coffee, or kind words from a friend. It’s about taking the time to appreciate the beauty in the world around you, no matter how small.
And once you start making your list, you’ll see that it’s not just a one-time thing. It’s a habit, a practice that you can continue to do daily or weekly. It becomes a way of living, a way of seeing the world, and a way of connecting to yourself and others. It’s like having a gratitude journal that you can look back on and see the progress and growth in your life.
So, why not give it a try? Grab a pen and paper and start listing all the simple things you’re thankful for. Trust me, you’ll be surprised at how many things you’ll find to be grateful for.
For more gratitude list ideas, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @Global.Viewpoint
Unique things to be grateful for
1. Fresh morning air – a refreshing start that invigorates your day.
2. A good joke – the kind that makes your belly ache with laughter.
3. The smell of rain – nature’s own aroma therapy.
4. A good night’s sleep – the foundation of a productive day.
5. Funny pet videos – endless laughter from our furry friends’ antics.
6. Overcoming a Challenge – the strength found in facing and conquering fears.
7. A memorable trip – those travel stories you’ll tell for years.
8. A favorite mug – the vessel for your daily brew.
9. A moment of solitude – your much-needed pause in a busy world.
10. Trying a new recipe successfully – a culinary adventure with a tasty outcome.
11. A good workout routine – investing in your health and well-being.
12. Life’s little lessons – wisdom gained from everyday experiences.
13. A clear night sky – an ideal view for stargazing.
14. A scenic drive – a journey that’s as beautiful as the destination.
15. Your favorite song on the radio – that tune you can’t help but sing along to.
16. Old photos – nostalgia in a snapshot, memories frozen in time.
17. A good teacher or mentor – guides who shape your path and potential.
18. Full moons – nighttime enchantment.
19. Shared vulnerability – connections deepened through honesty and openness.
20. A good night’s conversation – those chats that last until the wee hours.
21. Personal growth – the journey of becoming who you are meant to be.
22. Karaoke nights – where off-key singing is part of the charm.
23. A perfectly ripe fruit – nature’s candy, at its peak of flavor.
24. A day without plans – freedom to do whatever, whenever.
25. Acts of kindness – both given and received, small gestures with big impacts.
26. Freedom of expression – the power to voice your thoughts and beliefs.
27. A message from an old friend – rekindling connections, bridging time and distance.
28. Travel mishaps that turned into great stories – the unplanned adventures.
Top things to be thankful for in life
29. Family – the love and support of the people closest to us.
30. Health – the ability to live our lives to the fullest.
31. Friends – the people we share our lives with and who bring joy and companionship.
32. Freedom – the ability to make our own choices and live as we choose.
33. Nature – the beauty and wonder of the world around us.
34. Food – the nourishment that sustains us.
35. Shelter – the protection and comfort of a roof over our heads.
36. Education – the ability to learn and grow.
37. Employment – the means to support ourselves and our families.
38. Safety – the protection from harm and danger.
39. Transportation – the ability to get around and explore the world.
40. Technology – the tools that make our lives easier and more efficient.
41. Entertainment – the arts and media that bring us joy and relaxation.
42. Clothing – a way of expressing ourselves and the means to keep warm and presentable.
43. Love – the bond that connects us to others and brings happiness.
44. Water – the essential resource for survival.
45. Air – the vital element that keeps us alive.
46. Sleep – the rest and rejuvenation that keeps us healthy.
47. Sunlight – the natural light that brightens our days.
48. Opportunity – the chance to make our dreams a reality.
49. Pets – the love and companionship of our animal friends.
50. Music – the art form that touches our hearts and souls.
51. Books – the knowledge and stories they contain.
52. Medicine – the ability to heal and improve our health.
53. Internet – the access to information and communication.
54. Support systems – the people and resources that help us when we need it.
55. Financial stability – the ability to provide for ourselves and our loved ones.
56. Moments of clarity – for the guidance and direction they provide in life.
57. Memories – the experiences and moments that shape who we are.
58. Laughter – the joy and release it brings.
59. Kindness – the generosity and compassion of others.
60. Volunteering – the ability to give back and make a difference in the world.
61. Clean air and water – the vital resources for life.
62. Time – the ability to enjoy the present and plan for the future.
63. Personal growth – the ability to learn and improve ourselves.
64. Holidays – the special occasions that bring people together.
65. Creativity – the ability to express ourselves and make something new.
66. Hope – the belief in a better future. Always one of the best things to be grateful for!
67. Inspiration – the drive to achieve our goals.
68. Diversity – the richness and variety of life.
69. Beauty – people, art, architecture, and designs in our surroundings.
70. Five senses – letting us see, hear, feel, smell, and taste the world around us.
71. Mistakes – guides us to improve and become better
72. Unexpected downtime – those rare moments when plans get canceled and you get some unexpected ‘me time’.
73. Pain – helps us become stronger people
74. Sunset – a beautiful end to the day
Funny things to be thankful for
75. Cat videos – who needs therapy when you have cat videos?
76. Finding money in your pocket – for the small, unexpected surprises.
77. Being able to laugh at ourselves – a superpower that allows us to turn our mistakes into memes and our embarrassments into jokes
78. Board Game Victories – the sweet triumph in a friendly competition.
79. The plant you’ve somehow managed not to kill – for its surprising resilience and your (accidental) green thumb.
80. Theme Parties – a chance to be someone else for a night.
81. Your own terrible singing in the shower – for the joy of belting out tunes without judgment.
82. Memes – the internet’s way of making our struggles relatable and our triumphs sharable
83. Inside jokes – the secret language that bonds us together and makes the world a little less serious
84. Toilet paper – the one thing that separates us from the animals, and the one thing we don’t want to run out of
85. Dressing up for Halloween – creativity and fun in costume form.
86. Deodorant – the unsung hero of personal hygiene. Definitely something to be grateful for!
87. A full charge on your device – ready for the day’s digital challenges.
88. Finding the perfect parking spot – a small victory in the urban jungle.
89. Bad hair days – for the reminder that perfection is overrated and hats are underrated.
90. Your favorite cheesy song – for its magical ability to turn any mood around.
91. Puns – the lowest form of humor, but the highest form of wordplay
92. Happy hours – the time of day when work is forgotten
93. Autocorrect fails – for the laughter (and occasional blushes) they bring to text conversations.
94. The ability to make a silly face and make someone laugh – a superpower that can turn a bad day into a good one
95. Dad jokes – the corny punchline that makes us roll our eyes
96. Your old email address from high school – for a glimpse into your teenage self and a good chuckle.
97. Self-deprecating humor – the art of making fun of ourselves
98. Weird family traditions – for the uniqueness they add to family gatherings and the stories they create.
99. Belly laughs – laughter that makes your whole body shake
100. Mismatched socks – for giving you a quirky start to the day and a reason to smile.
101. The fact that there’s always someone worse off than you – just kidding, that’s not something to be thankful for, but it can put things in perspective
102. Sarcasm – saying the opposite of what you mean and making it sound better
103. The ability to turn any situation into a joke – this will always come in handy
104. Pranks – the art of making people laugh by making them believe something that’s not true
105. Burnt toast – for teaching you patience and the art of scraping off the black bits.
106. The Onion – the news source that makes fake news funny
107. Leftovers in the fridge – for solving the ‘what’s for dinner’ dilemma unexpectedly.
108. TikTok – the app that turned 15 seconds of fame into 15 minutes of entertainment
Things to be grateful about yourself
109. Your personality – there’s only one of you on this planet!
110. Your resilience – the ability to bounce back after difficult times and come out stronger
111. Your curiosity – for keeping the world interesting and always learning something new.
112. Your quirks – for making you, well, you! They add color and character to your personality.
113. Your creativity – seeing the world in a different way and come up with new ideas
114. Your smile – for its power to brighten your day and those around you.
115. Your kindness – caring for others and making a positive impact on the world
116. Your sense of humor – finding the funny in any situation and making others laugh
117. Your determination – the drive to pursue your goals and make your dreams a reality
118. Your unique talents – whether it’s cooking, drawing, or solving puzzles, they make you special.
119. Your ability to love – for the deep connections and relationships you’ve nurtured.
120. Your emotional intelligence – the ability to understand and manage your emotions, and connect with others
121. Your patience – the ability to wait for the right moment and appreciate the journey
122. Your adaptability – seeking to change and grow with new experiences and challenges
123. Your confidence – believing in yourself and your abilities to achieve what you want
124. Self-awareness – your ability to understand yourself and make conscious choices to improve yourself
125. Self-care – taking care of yourself and making your well-being a priority
126. Your honesty – being truthful with yourself and others
127. Open-mindedness – considering different perspectives and learning from others
128. Empathy – the ability to understand and relate to the feelings of others
129. Perseverance – the ability to keep going despite obstacles and setbacks.”
130. Sense of adventure – willingness to step out of your comfort zone and try new things
Gratitude list of things that are unexpectedly awesome
131. The feeling of accomplishment after cleaning a messy room
132. When traffic lights turn green as you approach – feeling like you’ve got the green light from the universe.
133. Warm laundry fresh out of the dryer – it’s like a cozy hug for your soul.
134. When someone holds the elevator for you – small acts of kindness that restore faith in humanity.
135. A perfectly ripe avocado – a small, delicious miracle in the world of unpredictable fruits.
136. When your pet greets you at the door – unconditional love at its finest.
137. Getting the window seat on a flight – for the views and a little extra nap space.
138. The smell of freshly baked bread
139. Getting lost in a good book
140. The sound of rain on the roof
141. The cool side of the pillow – a simple pleasure that’s refreshingly comforting.
142. Finding the perfect GIF for a text conversation – it’s the small victories that count.
143. Random compliments from strangers – a little boost of happiness from the most unexpected source.
144. The warmth of a hug from a loved one
145. The sight of a beautiful sunset
146. The feeling of soft grass between your toes
147. The sound of a baby’s laughter
148. The feeling of a warm blanket on a cold night
149. The taste of a cold beer on a hot day
150. The sound of waves crashing on the shore
151. The sight of a double rainbow
152. The feeling of a hot shower after a long day
153. The taste of a freshly brewed hot cup of coffee
154. The sound of birds singing in the morning
155. The feeling of a cool breeze on a hot day
156. The sight of a beautiful flower blooming
157. The taste of a delicious home-cooked meal
158. The feeling of a nice warm bed after a long day.
159. The ability to travel through time and space using our imagination, books, movies, and games
Deep things to be thankful for
160. Learning from mistakes – each error that turned into a valuable lesson.
161. Life’s little synchronicities – those ‘meant to be’ moments that feel like magic.
162. Genuine friendships – for those friends who are there in both laughter and tears.
163. Your favorite childhood memory – a moment of pure joy from your early years.
164. A hobby that brings you peace – whether it’s gardening, painting, or writing.
165. Your first successful DIY project – the pride in creating something with your own hands.
166. A moment of unexpected bravery – when you surprised yourself by facing a fear.
167. The first time you felt truly independent – a milestone that marked a new chapter in your life.
168. The smell that reminds you of home – whether it’s fresh bread or a specific perfume.
169. A teacher who believed in you – their encouragement that made a difference in your life.
170. That book that changed your perspective – the one that opened new worlds for you.
171. Your first travel adventure – the trip that ignited your wanderlust.
172. A specific piece of advice that stuck with you – words that guide you even now.
173. Having a job and coworkers that you love – team work makes the dream work.
Everyday comforts to appreciate
174. A comfortable chair – Daily support.
175. Fresh bed sheets – slipping into a bed made with crisp, clean sheets.
176. A warm jacket – Cozy against the cold.
177. Evening walks – the tranquility of a stroll as the day winds down.
178. Hot tea on a cold day – the comforting warmth of a cup of tea.
179. A favorite sweater – Cozy layer.
180. Fuzzy socks – the coziness of soft socks on a cold floor.
181. Favorite snacks – the small joy of indulging in your go-to treat.
182. Sunshine Through the Window – the gentle warmth and light of morning sun.
Health and wellness things to be thankful for
183. Morning stretches – Starting the day with your body feeling awake and limber.
184. Healthy food options – The ability to choose nutritious meals that fuel your body.
185. Mental health days – Recognizing the need for and taking a break for mental well-being.
186. Clean drinking water – Having access to safe, hydrating water anytime.
187. Yoga or meditation sessions – Moments of peace and mindfulness in a busy life.
188. Stress-relief activities – Whether it’s a hobby or exercise, having an outlet for stress.
189. A strong immune system – Grateful for the times you dodge the cold going around.
190. Physical ability to exercise – Being able to move, run, or dance freely.
191. Ergonomic workspaces – Having a setup that supports your posture and health.
Spiritual and philosophical things to appreciate in life
192. Spiritual connections – Feeling a bond with something greater than oneself.
193. The journey of self-discovery – Learning more about yourself spiritually.
194. Universal truths – Insights that resonate across different beliefs.
195. Artistic expressions of faith – The beauty and depth in spiritual art.
196. Personal beliefs – The freedom to believe and express your spirituality.
197. Mystical experiences – Those inexplicable moments that leave you in awe.
198. Spiritual mentors and guides – People who inspire and lead you on your spiritual journey.
199. Inner strength – The resilience that comes from within during tough times.
200. Nature’s spirituality – The tranquility found in natural surroundings.
How to find things to be grateful for
Ready to take your gratitude list to the next level? Want to find more ways to practice gratitude and thankfulness? Here are some key steps to making that list of things to be thankful for:
1. Start a gratitude journal
Write down at least three things you’re thankful for each day. This can be big or small, but try to focus on the positive things that happen throughout the day.
2. Get creative
Draw, paint, or doodle what you’re grateful for. This can be a fun way to express gratitude and can also serve as a reminder when you look back at your journal.
3. Take a gratitude walk
Go outside and take a walk while thinking about things you’re grateful for. This can be a great way to clear your mind and focus on the positive aspects of your life.
4. Play a gratitude game
Make a list of things you’re grateful for and then challenge a friend or family member to see who can come up with the most items.
5. Make it a group activity
Share what you’re grateful for with a group of friends or family members. This can be a great way to bond and learn about the things that others appreciate in their lives.
6. Use prompts
Use prompts or inspiration from websites, books or other sources to generate new things to be grateful for.
7. Find gratitude quotes
I love quotes, as they help me feel inspired and reflective of my life. I also use them when I practice journaling. Here are some quotes that you can add to your collection:
8. Send thank you notes
If you’re seeking things to be grateful for, look no further than thank you cards. Whether it’s a birthday, Christmas, or another special occasion like a wedding or anniversary, it’s a good idea to get in the practice of sending out these small tokens of appreciation. They really work wonders!
9. Practice mindfulness
Take a moment to be present and reflect on the things you are grateful for in your life. This can be done while practicing yoga, meditation, or any other mindful activity.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about what to be grateful for in life
Here are some popular questions and answers about what to be thankful for in 2023.
What are 10 ways to show gratitude?
Here are some of the best ways to show gratitude to the people around you:
- Say “thank you” with a heartfelt sincerity.
- Write a thank-you note or letter, the old-fashioned way.
- Give a thoughtful gift to show that you care.
- Cook or bake a delicious treat for someone.
- Offer to help someone with a task or project.
- Give a compliment or praise to someone who deserves it.
- Pay it forward by doing something kind for a stranger.
- Give a hug or a high-five to show your appreciation.
- Share your gratitude on social media and spread the love.
- Show your gratitude through actions, not just words.
Remember, showing gratitude is not just about saying “thank you.” It’s about putting your words into actions and making someone feel appreciated. The more creative and thoughtful the gesture, the more meaningful it will be. So, go out there and show some gratitude, you never know how much it could mean to someone!
How do you make a grateful list?
There are many ways to make a gratitude list, but I recommend doing the following:
– Get a notebook or journal: This is where you’ll write down all the things you’re grateful for. Make sure to choose a notebook that inspires you and makes you excited to write in it.
– Set a goal: Decide how often you want to make your grateful list. It could be once a week, once a day, or even multiple times a day.
– Get inspired: Before you start writing, take a moment to think about all the things you’re grateful for. You could also use prompts or inspiration from websites, books, or other sources to generate new things to be grateful for.
– Be creative: Instead of just writing a list, get creative! You could draw, paint, or doodle what you’re grateful for. Or even make a gratitude jar where you put small notes with things you are grateful for.
– Make it a group activity: Share what you’re grateful for with a group of friends or family members. This can be a great way to bond and learn about the things that others appreciate in their lives.
– Have fun with it: This is your grateful list, so make it fun! Add some humor, draw a little picture, or write a poem about something you’re thankful for. The more fun you have with it, the more likely you are to stick with it.
– Reflect on it: Take a moment to reflect on the things you wrote on your grateful list. Remember the feelings that come with it and be present in the moment.
What should you be most grateful for?
Well, let me tell you, there are so many things to be grateful for, but if I had to pick just one, it would definitely be the ability to laugh at myself. Because let’s be real, life can be challenging, and if we can’t laugh at ourselves, we might as well be a bunch of robots going through the motions.
Also, it’s important to be grateful for the little things in life like:
- Finding a lost pair of socks
- Discovering a new flavor of ice cream
- Getting a seat on a crowded bus
- A good meme
- And of course, the ability to eat an entire pizza by yourself without feeling guilty.
In short, be grateful for the big things and the small things, because they all make life worth living. And remember, if you ever feel ungrateful, just think of someone who has a bad hair day, lost their socks, and can’t eat pizza.
What are some very specific things to be thankful about?
Here are some gratitude list ideas that touch on unique areas:
- The ability to taste a delicious ice cream cone on a hot summer day.
- The sound of a bird chirping outside your window.
- The feeling of a cool breeze on your skin.
- A warm hug from a loved one.
- The smell of freshly baked cookies.
- The sight of a beautiful sunset.
- The taste of a perfectly brewed cup of coffee.
- The sound of your favorite song playing on the radio.
- The feeling of soft grass beneath your feet.
- The sensation of a cool dip in the ocean on a hot day.
- The taste of your mom’s home cooked meal.
- The sound of your child’s laughter.
- The feeling of a cozy blanket on a cold night.
- The sight of a beautiful rainbow after a storm.
- The ability to lay in a hammock and watch the clouds go by.
What am I grateful for?
I am thankful for everything I wrote in this article and more. I truly love my life and all the people in it. As a travel blogger, I’ve been to some amazing places and experienced many bucket list-worthy activities. But at the end of the day, I am most grateful for my health, my family, and all the other amazing people around me.
What are you thankful for?
Hope you enjoyed reading this round-up of things to be thankful for. Did any gratitude list ideas resonate with you? Let me know via email, Instagram, or in the comments! Sending good vibes your way! -Jon
