Gratitude. Resilience. Purpose. Don’t Forget To Be Thankful on Thanksgiving

There are a few realities from the past few years that have been front and center for all of us.

1. As much as I want to control – I can’t.

2. I need to plan but can’t put my self-worth in my plans.

3. Everything can change in a moment.

4. Gratitude is about perspective. Don’t lose perspective.

 During our change management sessions we discuss the VUCA model. Check out a quick excerpt here. Basically, this is a simple model that shares the reality that external factors will disrupt our work and life. We know that if we focus solely on what changes and what we can’t control, we will miss out. However, there are some things within our control. Let’s focus on what we can do, not what we can’t. I promise when we focus on what we can do instead of what we can’t – we will find a place of gratitude.
 
This week, I’m not sure what is grabbing your attention. Here’s a snippet of my Monday morning:

• We still have 8 mountains of leaves to burn and it’s raining …

• My boys need to learn responsibility and get their chores done before turning on anything digital ... why do they keep forgetting?

• Can I get all my invoices paid in the next 45 days …

• What’s the best way to smoke a turkey, spatchcock or not?

• How do we close out a great 4th quarter and be ready for an awesome 2024?

• What can I do to grow the business when the market is changing …?

 In the back of my mind as I think about those things, I think about the reality that Meg was in Israel for 22 days studying last year. What if we had postponed her trip? What if she had been there during the Hamas attack? Are the incredible friends she met over there okay? How can we be worrying about what to make for dinner or where to go and then all of a sudden be worrying about if we are even going to be able to eat dinner or see our family again?
 
When looking at some of the terrifying conflicts around the world – It’s sobering and it helps me to not put so much energy into what worries me on a daily basis.
 
I pray that this week if we are fortunate enough to spatchcock, fry, or grill a turkey, that we can find the time to stress less and be thankful more. If are you are roasting a turkey in the oven … I wish you luck!
 
With that--here are my top 9 reminders that help me remain grateful. If you want talk through any of them set up a time to chat!
 

1. Thankful I’m learning that my family is more important than email.

2. Thankful for the realization that client relationships are more important than the next sale.

3. Thankful my biggest Thanksgiving challenge is about smoking and spatchcocking a turkey.

4. Thankful God continues to work through me despite me being me.

5. Thankful my little Alice fell asleep on my lap after a bedtime story.

6. Thankful I’ve aligned my team for physical health.

7. Thankful for a kick butt team at Insight Leadership Group.

8. Thankful for a good church community and friendships.

9. Thankful for the ability to enjoy a quality French press coffee.

 Here’s the deal. There are plenty of things to complain about. What’s the point?  Life is better when we practice gratitude. There will always be something we don’t like, something we don’t appreciate, something that makes us a but anxious. However, we don’t have to let those “somethings” take control of our mind, thoughts, and actions.
 
This Thanksgiving – let the people closest to you and your friends at Insight Leadership Group know what you are thankful for.

Who knows  … we might even watch the Cowboys win this Thanksgiving.