It is that time again! The time where you are surrounded by loved ones and amazing food! Thanksgiving!

But for some people, it is a time of some stress. The coordinating of schedules, getting the family all together, the awkward conversations and maybe some family drama that has been lingering.

Remember, it is what you focus on, that you give power to. So, you are going to have to focus on the positive to get positive! Let me give you some tips that will help you see the power of Thanksgiving, if you find yourself getting a little bit down, or stressed on the upcoming Thanksgiving season. 

#1

Realize wtf is going on here! (Gratitude)

Meaning, take a look at what Thanksgiving is actually doing. It is literally putting a pause on everyone’s crazy life and forcing people to sit down and be together. Yes, some of the people, you may not agree with, but think about this. When you look back at life, you will think of all the family/friend moments you were able to share in light of all the crazy moments. People are going to die in your life and you will miss them. So, you need to be able to enjoy them where they are right now in your life. Embrace this time of year as a time that you are able to connect with your family is a new way. Think about the crazy stories you are going to hear and laugh about. Life is all about relationships, so really take the time to fully be present, because you never know when you will have a moment like this again with the people you are around.

#2

People are doing the best they can!

As crazy and different as the people are around you…they are literally doing the best they can. So, when uncle Tommy ask you 15 times when you are going to be a lawyer (and you don’t want to be…and told him 15 times) or when Abuela keeps asking you when you are going to get married or when your aunt hints at you being weird because you haven’t had any kids yet, don’t take it personal. And say to yourself “they are doing the best they can”. Life is not about you, people are going through life and seeing it through their lenses. It is not an attack on you, they want you to be happy, but they all have a different view on what that happiness looks like. Once you separate people’s comments from yourself, you appreciate their opinions and see it as watching a movie as opposed to seeing it as an attack. No one can give you meaning to things unless you accept it.

I want to leave you with these words…You can’t be grateful and in a negative state at the same time. So, if you find yourself with a little dark cloud over yourself this Thanksgiving, get into gratitude and find any little thing to be thankful for.

I am thankful for you…yeah you!

Andy