Have you noticed how unhappy the majority of people are with their lives? Most posts I see on social media contain "I wish..." Or "FML" or "I'm so jealous..." when a lot of these people have things pretty dang good. I know it's super easy to slip into the mindset of "I need more, I need the best," but thoughts like that are toxic.
With Thanksgiving coming up, I'm realizing that I usually stuff my face with mashed potatoes and green bean casserole without actually thinking of what I'm thankful for. Once I sit down, my head is filled with people and things that I appreciate. Something that's suggested for depression and borderline personality disorder is to list the good things, find the reasons you have to be thankful. Doing this instills a sense of gratitude in you, not that you're going to have a great and happy life just because you realize the good in your life. sometimes, it's just really humbling to reflect on the things you have instead of what you don't have.
I've made a list of the things I'm most thankful for, even if some of the things sound silly, here it is
1. My husband, who has shown me unfailing love and acceptance.
2. My God, who blesses me every day and loves me to no end.
3. My home, especially because so many go without one.
4. My job; I am surrounded by amazing individuals who love me and offer a support system that you don't often find in the workplace. Not only that, but the job market is still down in the dumps so I'm very thankful to even have a job.
5. My pets
6. My good health
7. My education and ability to attend university
8. My access to health care that is necessary for my well-being
9. My BPD because I am capable of feeling emotions so much deeper than most people.
10. The Odyssey team. Writing for Odyssey has been such a great opportunity and even though I haven't met my team members in person, there's always some sort of light-hearted conversation going on in our GroupMe.
Make some time and think about what you're grateful for. Even if it's frappuccinos and Netflix, take some time to acknowledge the good things around you.
