Every last Thursday of November, Americans celebrate Thanksgiving. Although the holiday's intentions are questionable, we should aim to be thankful every day rather than just one day in the year dedicated to being thankful. In fact, a positive psychology study showed that being grateful created an "enhanced sense of personal well being," which translates to more positive emotions, better relationships and improved health. So, what exactly does it mean to show thankfulness or gratitude? Gratitude is the act of appreciating what one's life has to offer, and it can be as simple as a smile in the hallway on the way to class! Here are 11 ways to start being more grateful for the blessings in your life.

1. Keep a gratitude journal.

Whether it's on an app on your phone or in a physical notebook, keeping track of something that you're grateful for will show you how much you have in your life.

2. Call someone!

Most people prefer texting over actually calling someone, but a phone call helps you develop a better conversation with whomever you're talking to. Even a two-minute phone call to say, "I appreciate you" goes farther than a single text message.

3. Handwrite a letter.

In the digital age where messages send instantly, taking the time to write a physical message to someone shows that you took time out of your day to think about him or her. Try some special stationery if you really want to show your appreciation!

4. Give out a genuine compliment.

As Dale Carnegie once said, “Nothing else so inspires and heartens people as words of appreciation. You and I may soon forget the words of encouragement and appreciation that we utter now, but the person to whom we have spoken them may treasure them and repeat them to themselves over a lifetime.” Compliments go beyond just the present moment in showing someone your appreciation.

5. Appreciate your surroundings.

Take a walk outside, or clean up your work space. Changing up your environment, especially by being out in nature, helps you realize how many moments you're taking for granted.

6. Help others in need.

Giving a hand to someone in need can be as simple as holding the door for someone or cleaning up the dining table after dinner.

7. Apologize when necessary.

We all mess up sometimes. Owning up to your mistakes makes you more humble and helps you understand your shortcomings, which both make you more understanding.

8. Volunteer in the community.

Giving back to your community is a great way to practice gratitude because it shows the impact of your actions in the world beyond yourself.

9. Smile!

Even if you can't do anything else, a smile can brighten someone else's day with minimal effort. It's scientifically proven to make you feel better, too!

Making gratitude a mindful habit is a great way to practice self-love and maintain relationships, no matter how big or small the gesture.