In my family, we have a Thanksgiving tradition of going around the table and listing what it is that we are grateful for this year. Whether it be health, wealth, good food, or good friends, everyone has something that they can give thanks for. I love this tradition, but I don't think it should be limited to Thanksgiving dinner. Here are some tips for staying mindful and thankful all year long.

One thing I have found that helps me to be aware of my blessings is keeping a gratitude log. These are so simple to use and they can make such a big impact. All you need is a notebook - it can be a tiny, cheap one from the dollar store, or if you keep a journal already you can incorporate it into that.

Each morning, when you wake up, make a point to set aside a couple of minutes to reflect on what you are grateful for that day. It can be as simple as the fact that you have your favorite cereal in the pantry, or it can be something more serious, like a family member overcoming an illness. You can write your thoughts on it or what makes you grateful for it, or you can simply list it. A gratitude log can be as simple or detailed as you would like; its purpose is just to make you more conscious of everything you have to appreciate!

Another way to stay grateful is to stay mindful. Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment and being fully aware of what is happening right now. Mindfulness is a beneficial practice in general, but in regards to gratitude, it is helpful in how it makes us stop and focus on the things we are blessed with in the present. We are able to step away from our wants, or things we have lost, and just truly appreciate our current gifts.

Another, productive way to cultivate gratefulness is to give back. Find a cause that speaks to you and then make yourself familiar with it. Recognize how you are privileged enough to be able to support this cause, and appreciate how the organization gives back to you. What are you learning or gaining through this experience? Having others be appreciative of you reminds you, in turn, to be appreciative, of them and of all the positives in your life.

Being mindful of and appreciating the good things in your life is shown to promote a positive mindset and mood. People who are more grateful also tend to be more optimistic and cheerful. This Thanksgiving, choose one way you will carry the spirit of gratitude past the holiday and into your daily life.