Hungry for More: Finding Gratitude in the Busy Life

I’ve always been someone who sets big goals. Whether it’s personal or professional, I tend to pile a lot onto my plate. But there have been moments when I’ve found myself feeling completely overwhelmed, wondering why I’m struggling to keep up. That’s when I remind myself of the old saying, “Don’t cry about having a lot on your plate when your goal was to eat.” It’s a reminder that everything I’m dealing with now is something I once wanted. Instead of feeling burdened, I try to shift my perspective toward gratitude.

Related: Burnout is Real — Here’s 4 Steps to Prevent and Beat the Cycle

The Importance of Gratitude in My Life

I’ve learned firsthand why gratitude is so important—especially when life gets busy. It’s easy to get caught up in the stress and forget that the challenges I face are often a direct result of my own ambitions. Gratitude helps me remember that the fullness of my life is something to be thankful for, not something to dread.

How Journaling Helps Me Stay Grounded

One of the ways I keep myself in check is through journaling. It’s a practice that’s become a lifeline for me. If you’re wondering how often should you journal?, I’d say it depends on your needs. Some days I’ll write pages, and other days just a few lines. The key for me has been consistency, not perfection.

My gratitude journal categories vary—sometimes I focus on personal achievements, other times on small moments of joy. This approach helps me capture the full spectrum of my experiences. The gratitude journal results I’ve seen are real: a calmer mind, a better outlook, and a stronger sense of contentment with where I’m at.

Related: Gratitude Journaling and Your Mental and Financial Health

Finding Gratitude in the Everyday

Aside from journaling, I’ve found that small, mindful practices help me stay centered. One of my favorites is taking a gratitude walk. When I’m outside, I make a point to notice the little things—the way the sun feels on my skin, the sound of leaves rustling in the breeze, or even just the rhythm of my footsteps. It’s a simple way to connect with the present moment and appreciate the beauty in the everyday.

Keeping Perspective When the Plate is Full

When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I remind myself why I should keep a gratitude journal. It’s not about ignoring the stress or pretending everything is perfect. Instead, it’s about acknowledging the fullness of my life and finding peace in knowing that I’m exactly where I need to be.

So, if you’re like me and sometimes find yourself feeling buried under the weight of your own goals, try shifting your focus. Take a moment to recognize the abundance in your life and find gratitude for the challenges that come with it. Whether it’s through journaling, mindfulness, or just a quiet walk, there are plenty of ways to stay grounded in gratitude. Remember, the full plate in front of you is something you once hoped for—so take a deep breath, and give thanks for it.

Related: The Guided Gratitude Journal