During the craziness of this year (and there’s been plenty!), it may seem hard to come up with reasons why we should be grateful. It’s too easy to focus on what we don’t have and can’t do, rather than what we do have and can do. But at Writer’s Relief, we know it’s important to take a moment to remember that there’s still a lot of good in our lives! As we head into the holiday season, here are just a few of the things we’re most thankful for right now.
What We’re Most Thankful For
Inspiration
Perhaps you’re participating in the NaNoWriMo challenge, or you’ve been filling the extra hours with writing short stories or poetry. Whether you consider the big events in the world or the flora and fauna right outside your window, there’s a lot to inspire your writing! Who knew toilet paper could lead to an existential crisis, or that neighborhood deer use your garden as a shortcut? Reading the works of other writers is also a great way to improve your own skills and inspire your writing. Writing prompts are another good source of inspiration, and you’ll find some wonderful visual prompts here.
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”—C.S. Lewis
“This is how you do it: You sit down at the keyboard and you put one word after another until it’s done. It’s that easy, and that hard.”—Neil Gaiman
Good Food
You can’t talk about Thanksgiving and the holiday season without talking about food! This year the turkey may be a little smaller and some people may be joining the meal via videoconferencing, but you can still enjoy good food with your loved ones. Along with all the delicious desserts, remember to sneak in a few tasty, healthy snacks to fuel your writing energy!
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.”—Virginia Woolf
“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.” —J.R.R. Tolkien
Friends and Family
The stress of spending extended time apart is taking a toll on many people. Now more than ever, distant socializing with a phone call or a video chat is very important. Making connections with family and friends even if you’re apart will help with your overall mood and reduce your sense of isolation. If you are able to meet in person, be sure to follow safety guidelines.
“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.”— Maya Angelou
“I awoke this morning with devout thanksgiving for my friends, the old and the new.”—Ralph Waldo Emerson
Reasons to Smile
Even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, babies are born, good books are published, and some really funny cat videos are trending. Making an effort to see the sunny side of things will help boost your mood—and your immune system! Plus, it will make those holiday gatherings with grumpy Uncle Frank and chatty Aunt Meg more pleasant if you can crack a joke or a smile. Keeping a gratitude journal during trying times will help you become more aware of the good things around you.
“Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.”—Voltaire
“The most wasted of all days is one without laughter.”—e. e. cummings
By focusing on reasons to be thankful right now, you can give your creativity a boost—try looking for the silver lining and write about a positive future! Remember, a new year with new opportunities isn’t far off.
Question: What are you most thankful for right now?
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