Suzy Rawlins Life is made up of seasons, some filled with joy and abundance, others with waiting, frustration, or uncertainty. No matter the season, one thing remains constant: the power of gratitude. It’s easy to express thankfulness when everything is going well, but learning to cultivate gratitude in all circumstances, yes, even the tough ones, can transform your perspective and your life.
One simple yet powerful way to do this is by starting a gratitude journal. This is something I started at the beginning of the year. Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. They don’t have to be monumental. For me it’s the small moments that bring the most peace and clarity. A quiet morning with coffee, a kind word from a friend, or the laughter of a loved one—these tiny blessings are easy to overlook but add up to a life full of beauty and meaning.
Joy…
In seasons of joy, gratitude helps us soak in the goodness around us. It’s those moments of pure happiness when we recognize how blessed we truly are. Taking time to pause, reflect, and write down what you’re grateful for deepens your appreciation for the good things in your life. It anchors you in the present and reminds you to savor the moment instead of rushing to the next big thing.
Frustration…
Gratitude during seasons of frustration may not come as easily, but it’s just as important. Maybe you’re facing challenges at work, with your health, or in your relationships. It’s in these moments that gratitude becomes a lifeline. Instead of focusing on what’s going wrong, take a step back and find even the smallest blessings to hold onto. Maybe it’s the roof over your head, the food on your table, or the lessons being revealed through hardship. Gratitude doesn’t erase frustration, but it shifts your focus and gives you hope.
Waiting…
Waiting can be one of the hardest seasons to navigate, trust me I know. Whether you’re waiting for a job opportunity, a relationship to heal, or a breakthrough in your goals, it’s easy to feel discouraged or stuck. But gratitude teaches us to trust the process and appreciate the present moment, even as we hope for what’s ahead. Instead of fixating on what’s missing, focus on what you already have.
Celebration…
When life brings milestones, big wins, or exciting news, gratitude helps us celebrate well. It keeps us grounded and reminds us that these moments are gifts. Instead of letting joy pass quickly, make it a habit to write down what you’re grateful for during celebrations.
If you’ve never kept a gratitude journal, start today. Each morning or evening, write down three things you’re thankful for. They can be small, simple, or profound—whatever comes to mind. Over time, this practice will help you build a habit of gratitude, no matter what season of life you’re in.
Gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring challenges or denying reality. It means choosing to focus on the blessings, big and small, that are present at every moment. As you express gratitude through the highs, lows, and everything in between, you’ll begin to see life differently.
