Remembering To Be Thankful

Each year, when Thanksgiving rolls around, we're reminded to take time out of our busy lives to give thanks. But we don't necessarily need to wait for Thanksgiving to be grateful. Psychological studies suggest that cultivating a year-round attitude of gratitude can actually have long term effects on our happiness.

Here are some activities you can do to be more thankful this Thanksgiving season, and all year round:

• Create a gratitude list. After compiling a list of things you're grateful for - and why - consider reading it every morning and starting off your day in a place of gratitude instead of protest. Appreciate what you have, and you'll suddenly realize that you have so much more than you realized.
• Volunteer. Choose a cause that means the most to you and make it meaningful. Perhaps you have time to volunteer at a local food bank to serve up hot meals to people who don't have a kitchen or can't afford a turkey. If you have less time, you can drop off cans at a local donation center. Simple acts of kindness can remind you just how thankful you are for what you have.
• Meditate. If done properly over time, meditation can connect us with a feeling of inner peace. It quiets the mind and tunes out the constant chatter of thoughts. This simple practice allows us to be more cognizant of the big picture as we let go of petty concerns that suddenly don't seem so significant anymore.
• Gratitude affirmations. A simple act like saying an affirmation can have a huge impact on your mental and emotional state. Even something as simple as "I am grateful for this moment" can leave you feeling happier and more at peace.