We all have a lot going on in our lives. It's a part of growing up. As you grow, it seems as though more and more stress is added to your life. As young adults, teens, or whatever you want to call yourself, it seems like it might never end. There's schoolwork, extracurriculars, family, social lives, friends, health, relationships, hobbies, interests, wants, needs, sleep, and the drama that comes with all of that. Just when you feel like you're doing well and you're happy, you find out you failed an exam or that you've gotten sick. The only thing you can do at that point is to pick yourself up and remind yourself that no matter how bad it seems now, no matter what the situation, there still are a whole lot of things to be thankful for.

It's important to remind ourselves of this, as every day life can oftentimes be overwhelming. Just take a step back and breathe. Be thankful for your family. Whether your family is small, large, complete, or incomplete, these are your people. They're the people that will never turn on you and the people that will always be there for you. Friendships may come and go, and although it's corny, family is forever. This is a support system that will never fail you, and you can always go back to. Be thankful for the beauty of nature. A sunny day or beautiful autumn landscape is enough to make almost anyone the slightest bit happy. Nature is pure. It's mostly untouched by man, and is something that just is what it is. It's simple, elegant, and gorgeous. Be thankful for food, especially good food.

This is something that most people take for granted, as it is a basic human necessity. However, don't underestimate the power of a home-cooked meal or your favorite tub of ice-cream. Whatever your mood or situation, food will always be there for you. Be thankful for music. Whatever your taste, good music or your favorite song will never fail to make you smile. It could be the familiarity of the words or the beat that makes you wanna dance, but music is the ultimate mood lifter. Blast it until your eardrums hurt, or even fall asleep to it, just let it soothe you. Finally, be thankful for your life.

You are blessed with one life to live, don't waste it. Do more of what you love, and keep yourself happy. Find your passions, find your best friends, find your happy place. Make the most of your life.

Life can be tough. It can be stressful, hard, and even unbearable sometimes. However, if you just take a step back, you'll gain a little perspective and see that there are so many things to be thankful for. These are just a few things to be grateful for, and there are so many more. Count your blessings, not your losses, and always live your best life.