National Gratitude Month is conveniently celebrated in November, and you’ve probably already seen some of the many “30 Days of Thanks” challenge on social media. This exercise is wonderful for all individuals, but it’s especially constructive for recovering addicts.

Importance of Gratitude in Recovery

Whether you’re a newly recovering addict or a long-term one, we can all appreciate the meaning behind gratitude. As we take the time to be grateful for what we have, we become happier in our lives.

As you probably already know, gratitude is more than saying ‘thank you.’ It has the amazing power to shift negative thinking into positive thinking. By practicing gratitude each day, you can develop a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you.

Ideas for Expressing Gratitude

We strongly encourage you to take part in a “30 Days of Thanks” challenge. It doesn’t have to be one on social media. Your journey is a very personal one, and we understand that you might not want to share that online. Instead, start a journal or personal blog and take the time to write down one thing that you are grateful for each day.

Aside from writing things down, you can also express gratitude in your daily life. Here are some ideas to get you started.

• Thank someone for being a positive influence on your recovery.

• Call someone that you haven’t talked to in a while. Let them know how important they are to you.

• Take a picture of something or someone that you are grateful for.

• Smile at others and offer to assist with small tasks, such as holding a door open or offering to help load groceries. You can turn someone’s day around!

• Send thank you notes to those who deserve recognition. Has anyone helped with the kids? Given you a ride to work? Brought over a meal?

• Enjoy the people around you. Appreciate their personalities and unique qualities.

• Donate your time to helping others. Food pantries, homeless shelters, animal shelters, and toy drives are in special need during this time of the year.

• Model patience and wisdom throughout the month of November. It will be hard – but imagine the behavior changes that can be made!

• Choose one of your five senses to focus on for the day. Use it to further experience the things around you.

• See the world through the eyes of a child. Better yet, spend some time with a child. Take in each moment, let your guard down and stop worrying about what’s not in your control.

It’s not too late to start a “30 Days of Thanks” challenge. Who knows – it might get you thinking more positively and regularly expressing gratitude each day!