Gratitude on Hard Days

Building gratitude through tough times

When you find yourself challenged, whether a business action needs to happen or a personal need that has put you on the spot, gratitude can feel out of reach, yet its power is often most transformative during hard times. 

On tough days, it helps to focus on small, tangible things. A nice cup of coffee might help. Often, a kind text from a friend might hit the spot. You might have an extra hour in bed with a warm blanket. These moments remind us that although we have difficulties, pockets of good still exist.

You should view hardships as opportunities for growth. While this should not involve dismissing pain or thinking everything is fine, acknowledging what a struggle has taught you, such as resilience, patience, or empathy, may shift your perspective.

Journaling is another tool to lean on. Write down three things you’re grateful for, no matter how small. Remember, the challenge is what you face. How you handle the challenge is up to your grace. 

Ultimately, gratitude does not mean ignoring the hard things; it focuses on hope, strength, and light in the cracks, one small silver lining at a time.

Ultimately, gratitude does not mean ignoring the hard things; it focuses on hope, strength, and light in the cracks, one small silver lining at a time.

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Author: Mike Balof

A retired Air Force Master Sergeant, Mike used to lay in bed at night and worry about what would happen if his plant closed or found himself without a job. One day his plant closed. Rather than panic and hysteria (OK, maybe a little) Mike found himself carried away on the adventure of his life. Mike started with the best job he ever had working at Home Depot. He spent 8 years working with job seekers at a local workforce center, helping them to find employment. He then started his own company developing courses, writing books and urging others to follow their own paths into the future. Mike holds a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training and a Bachelor of Business Management, earned through the University of Phoenix and an AAS degree in Electronics Systems Technology from the Community College of the Air Force. Mike is a member of the Delta Mu Delta Business Honor Society.

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