Today I choose to be grateful
Written By Jenny Wu on
Do you have days where you just feel like giving up completely?
Like things just keep going wrong and you can’t seem to catch your breath?
Like no matter how hard you try things just aren’t working out?
I often feel all the above and more, and frankly social media has only exacerbated this feeling of not enough. And then the ugly monster that is jealousy appears:
“Why is her skin perfect when she doesn’t even wear sunscreen?”
“Why did he get promoted when I’ve worked twice as hard?”
“Why is their marriage perfect while we keep having the same arguments?”
Then you probably feel even worse for thinking these thoughts. “Great, as if my life isn’t up in flames, let’s add an awful personality to the list!”
But the truth is it’s ok to wonder these things, to feel frustrated and upset. We don’t have to pretend that problems don’t exist or suppress our feelings.
As humans we’re meant to experience and live the full range of emotions, it’s how we choose to react to these emotions that’s important.
It’s about a shift in perspective, to reframe your mindset. In the past, I’ve allowed myself to dwell on them, but now I’ve been consciously rebutting each negative with gratitude:
“Why is her skin perfect when she doesn’t even wear sunscreen?” ➡️ “I’m thankful for my preemptive sunscreen application because I know my skin will be healthier in the long run.”
“Why did he get promoted when I’ve worked twice as hard?” ➡️ “I’m thankful for this opportunity to understand the company culture better. If we value different things, perhaps it’s a sign for change.”
“Why is their marriage perfect while we keep having the same arguments” ➡️ “I’m thankful that we still love each other despite constantly butting heads. I’m also thankful for this opportunity to learn how to better communicate with my partner.”
Sometimes it’s hard to put a negative spin on things, especially if this practice is new to you. But with anything, the more you do it, the easier it’ll come to you.
To end this post on gratitude, I especially want to thank YOU the readers who have been supporting this blog. You give me the strength to keep going!
Passionate about science-based skincare. Tested hundreds if not thousands of products since my 20's. Working regularly with brands like iHerb, Ulta, CurrentBody, and MedStar Health to share my knowledge and experience in all things beauty. Learn more.
Skin profile: 35+, dry/combination, focused on well-aging, hydration, and a healthy glow ✨
Comments & Questions
Stephanie
I love the positivity of this post. Thanks for writing this and reminding us all about how important it is to remain positive, grateful despite the bad things that are happening. eventually, it will pass and you'll look back and realize how mature and good it is to be positive rather than being dragged into sadness!
Jamie @ thestudiolark.com
I know exactly how you feel. Due to some major issues in my personal life over the past few months I haven't been emotionally stable enough to do anything but sit like a bum on the couch and watch TV. Blogging was hard because it made me think about things I couldn't bare to think about.
This post is very optimistic and uplifting. Your positive outlook is extremely inspiring and you are completely right, we need to pay more attention to the silver linings in life, not just the dark clouds. I'm glad that you're feeling a bit better and I hope your personal issues officially resolve soon! (:
Amber
I understand about difficult problems that can affect your personal life. I recently just went through a whole week worth of it, and I am still unsure where that leaves me. However, your article does prove some points. Be thankful for what you have. It helps you get through the rough days.
Cat
Sorry to hear about the problems you're having :( I think this is a great post though, and I should do this the next time I feel down too. Even when times are bad, there are still good things in life! I hope things get better for you!
Latrina McNeill
I'm sorry that you're going through a rough time. I hope it gets better & you can find some peace.
Gratitude is such a big value to have. I am so happy you decided to blog! And not only that... share your list with us. It's definitely a good feeling, isn't it?... to think & reflect on the things that we are truly grateful for. It, in it's on way, makes our troubles seem a lot less severe at times... I hope it did just that for you.
Ren Aysha
I hope you stay strong with whatever you are going through, Jenny. It usually helps to count our blessings and think about what we have rather than what we don't have. Stay strong, love.
Raisy
Thank you for such an inspiring entry. Sorry to hear you've had troubles, but sometimes taking the time to think of the positive instead of the negative really does have healing powers!
Shauna
It's always great to have an attitude of gratitude!! Thanks for sharing.:)