Welcome to another edition of the 1% Habits Newsletter!

This is where you’ll get up-to-date information on small wins to improve your habits, productivity, and life satisfaction. 

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📈 11 Ways to Become a More Thankful Person

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day here in the United States.

It’s a cherished time when families and friends come together to share a hearty meal. We cheer on our favorite football teams and, most importantly, express gratitude for the blessings in our lives.

It's a holiday that I eagerly anticipate each year. The day is filled with warmth, connection, and reflection. However, the spirit of Thanksgiving doesn't have to be confined to just one day on the calendar.

Cultivating a habit of gratitude can enrich our lives in countless ways, all year round.

Being thankful can improve our mental well-being, strengthen our relationships, and even boost our physical health.

But how do we go about it?

In today’s featured article, we'll explore 11 simple yet powerful ways to become a more thankful person.

These strategies will help you embrace and express gratitude every day. Whether it's through small daily practices or more significant shifts in perspective, there are many ways to make gratitude a constant presence in your life.

So, let’s dive in and discover how you can carry the spirit of Thanksgiving with you throughout the year.

1. Keep a Gratitude Journal

Start your journey to thankfulness by keeping a gratitude journal. This simple habit can make a big difference in how you see the world.

Each day, write down three things you're grateful for. They can be big or small. Maybe you're thankful for a warm cup of coffee or a chat with a friend.

Try to be specific. Instead of just writing "family," think about what exactly makes you grateful for them. Did your sister help you with a project? Did your dad tell a funny joke?

Writing in your journal before bed can help you end the day on a positive note. You might find it easier to fall asleep with good thoughts in mind.

Don't worry if you miss a day. Just pick up where you left off. The goal is to make gratitude a regular part of your life, not to stress yourself out.

Over time, you'll build a collection of happy memories and good feelings. When you're feeling down, you can look back at your journal for a quick mood boost.

Here is a gratitude bundle that can help you get started.

2. Practice Mindful Meditation

Mindful meditation can help you be more thankful in life. This simple practice lets you focus on the present moment. It helps clear your mind of worries and stress.

To start, find a quiet spot where you won't be disturbed. Sit comfortably and close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths to relax your body.

Pay attention to your breathing. Notice how the air feels as it enters and leaves your body. When your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breath.

As you meditate, think about things you're grateful for. It could be your health, family, or a warm cup of coffee. Let feelings of thankfulness fill you up.

Try to meditate for just 5 minutes a day at first. You can slowly increase the time as you get more comfortable. With regular practice, you'll find it easier to notice and appreciate the good things in your life.

Mindful meditation can make you feel calmer and more positive. It helps you see the beauty in everyday moments. This can lead to a more thankful outlook on life.

3. Write Thank You Notes

Taking time to write thank you notes is a great way to show gratitude. It's a simple act that can make a big difference in your life and others' lives.

You can write notes for gifts you've received or kind actions people have done for you. Don't limit yourself to big things. Even small gestures deserve thanks.

Handwritten notes add a personal touch. But if you prefer, you can send an email or text message. The important thing is to express your feelings.

Be specific in your note. Mention what you're thankful for and why it matters to you. This shows you really appreciate the person's effort.

Try to write thank you notes soon after receiving a gift or favor. But remember, it's never too late to say thanks.

Make it a habit to write one thank you note each week. This will help you notice the good things in your life more often.

Writing thank you notes can boost your mood. It reminds you of the nice things people do for you. It can also make the other person feel good too.

4. Volunteer Your Time

Giving your time to help others can make you more thankful. Look for places in your community that need volunteers. You might find options at food banks, animal shelters, or senior centers.

When you volunteer, you see how your efforts make a difference. This can help you appreciate what you have in your own life. It's a chance to connect with people and feel good about helping.

Try different volunteer activities to find what you enjoy. You could read to kids at a library or clean up a local park. Even small acts of service count.

Set aside a few hours each month for volunteering. Make it a regular part of your schedule. You'll likely find that helping others boosts your mood and gratitude.

Remember, volunteering doesn't have to be a big commitment. Even an hour here and there can make an impact. Start small and see how it affects your outlook on life.

5. Express Daily Thanks

Saying thanks every day can make you happier. It's a simple way to focus on the good things in your life. You can start by thanking one person each day for something they did.

Write down three things you're thankful for before bed. They can be big or small. Maybe you're grateful for a sunny day or a tasty meal.

Try to notice the little things. Did someone hold the door for you? Did your dog greet you with a wagging tail? These small moments are worth appreciating.

Share your thanks out loud. Tell your family or friends what you're grateful for. This can spread positivity and make others feel good too.

Remember to thank yourself sometimes. You work hard and deserve recognition. Be proud of your efforts and achievements, no matter how small they seem.

6. Reflect on Positive Moments

Take time each day to think about good things that happened. This can be as simple as enjoying a tasty meal or hearing from a friend. Try to find at least three positive moments daily.

Keep a journal to write down these happy times. You can look back at it when you're feeling down. This helps you see that good things happen more often than you might realize.

Before bed, think about what went well during the day. Even on tough days, you can usually find something positive. Maybe you helped someone or learned something new.

Pay attention to small joys too. A pretty flower, a child's laugh, or a kind word from a stranger can brighten your day. These little things add up and make life better.

When you focus on good moments, you train your brain to notice more positive things. This can make you feel happier and more grateful over time. It's a simple way to boost your mood and outlook on life.

7. Limit Negative Media Consumption

Cutting back on negative news and media can boost your thankfulness. Try reducing your time spent watching or reading upsetting content. This includes scary headlines, violent shows, and angry social media posts.

Instead, look for positive stories and uplifting content. Focus on good news that makes you smile. Watch comedies or nature shows that leave you feeling happy.

Set boundaries for your media use. Maybe check the news once a day instead of constantly. Turn off notifications that interrupt you with negative updates.

Fill your freed-up time with things you enjoy. Read a fun book, call a friend, or go for a walk outside. These activities can improve your mood and outlook.

Remember, you control what you let into your mind. Choose media that inspires gratitude rather than stress or fear. Your thankfulness will grow as you surround yourself with more positivity.

8. Perform Random Acts of Kindness

Doing nice things for others can make you feel more thankful. Try helping a neighbor carry groceries or holding the door for someone. These small acts can brighten someone's day and yours too.

You don't need to plan big gestures. Simple things like giving a compliment or leaving a kind note can make a difference. Think about ways you can spread kindness in your daily life.

Random acts of kindness remind you of the good in the world. They help you focus on what you can give rather than what you lack. This shift in thinking can boost your gratitude.

You might surprise yourself with how good it feels to be kind. The joy of helping others can make you appreciate your own life more. It's a win-win situation that creates more happiness all around.

Try doing one kind thing each day. You'll soon notice how it changes your outlook. Being thankful becomes easier when you're actively creating positivity in the world.

9. Create a Gratitude Jar

A gratitude jar is a fun way to collect happy memories. Get a big jar or container and put it somewhere you'll see often. Keep small pieces of paper and a pen nearby.

Whenever something good happens, write it down on a slip of paper. It can be anything that made you smile or feel thankful. Drop the note in your jar.

You might write about a tasty meal, a kind word from a friend, or a beautiful sunset. No moment is too small to appreciate.

Watch your jar fill up over time. It's amazing to see how many good things happen when you pay attention.

On tough days, reach into your jar and read a few notes. They'll remind you of all the positives in your life. This can lift your spirits when you're feeling down.

At the end of the year, empty your jar. Read through all your happy moments. You'll be surprised by how much you have to be thankful for.

10. Compliment Others Sincerely

When you give honest compliments, you spread joy and gratitude. Take time to notice good things about people around you. Tell them what you admire or appreciate.

Your words can brighten someone's day. A sincere compliment shows you're paying attention and care. It helps build stronger connections with others.

Try to be specific with your praise. Instead of just saying "Good job," explain what exactly impressed you. This makes your compliment more meaningful.

Remember to compliment people on their efforts and character, not just results. Praise kindness, hard work, or creativity when you see it.

Make complimenting a daily habit. Look for opportunities to say something nice to family, friends, coworkers, or even strangers. You'll likely find yourself feeling more thankful too.

Don't forget to accept compliments graciously as well. A simple "thank you" shows your appreciation for others' kind words.

11. Celebrate Small Wins

Being thankful isn't just about big events. It's important to notice and celebrate the little things too. Small wins happen every day, but we often overlook them.

Take a moment to appreciate when you finish a task at work. Feel proud when you cook a healthy meal at home. Smile when you make it to the gym, even if it's just for a short workout.

These small victories add up over time. They show progress and growth in your life. Recognizing them can boost your mood and motivation.

Try keeping a "wins" journal. Write down three small successes each day. This helps you focus on the positive things happening around you.

Share your small wins with friends or family. They'll be happy for you, and it might inspire them to celebrate their own small victories too.

Remember, life is made up of many little moments. By celebrating small wins, you'll find more reasons to be thankful every single day.

Final Thoughts on Being Thankful

Being thankful can change your life in amazing ways. It helps you see the good things around you, even when times are tough.

Try to make gratitude a habit. Start small by noticing one thing you're grateful for each day. Write it down or tell someone about it.

Remember to thank the people in your life. A simple "thank you" can brighten someone's day and make your relationships stronger.

Look for the silver lining in hard situations. There's often something to learn or be grateful for, even when things don't go as planned.

Be kind to yourself. Thank your body for carrying you through the day. Appreciate your mind for helping you solve problems.

Gratitude can make you happier and healthier. It can lower stress and help you sleep better. It might even boost your immune system.

Don't forget to enjoy the little things. A warm cup of coffee, a pretty sunset, or a good laugh with friends are all worth celebrating.

Spread thankfulness to others. Your positive attitude can inspire those around you to be more grateful too.

⚙️1% Habit Idea

Today’s idea continues the idea of spreading positivity. This 1% habit can help improve all your interpersonal relationships. It all starts with giving simple compliments.

Giving genuine compliments is a great way to make others feel good while improving your self-esteem. Compliments have many other benefits like:

● Encouraging those who are struggling

● Strengthening existing relationships

● Serving as an icebreaker when meeting someone new

● Helping you see the good in others

Overall, complimenting people daily is a great habit because it forces you to constantly look for positive attributes in everyone you encounter. And if you’re naturally shy or withdrawn, giving compliments forces you to interact with others, which increases your confidence.

How to Get Started

Keep an eye out for something you genuinely like or enjoy, such as someone’s outfit, something they said, or a recent accomplishment. Then compliment the other person about it, doing it in front of other people (if possible).

Let’s take a more detailed look at “how” we should compliment people to get the most out of our compliments (both for them and for us):

1. Never compliment someone “just because.” Fake flattery just makes you a suck-up, and it’s easy to notice someone who gives out false praise because they think it will win them friends.

2. Compliments should always be derived from taking notice of something genuinely praiseworthy. One important aspect of this habit is you should give people 100% of your attention, instead of being distracted by your phone or something else you’re doing.

3. What you say should be specific. While “you look great today” may sound good, it’s better to point out a change, like a new haircut or a piece of clothing.

4. Never use a backhanded compliment. I have heard “you are a good runner for an old guy” more than once. Compliments like this sting more than they encourage.

5. Share your compliment with others, not just the person you are complimenting. Follow the age-old adage “praise in public; criticize in private.”

6. Say what you mean and mean what you say. As long as your thoughts are not dirty or hurtful to others, share your compliments with others. People often fail to compliment because they assume someone already knows the compliment for a fact. Or they think that they must be constantly complimented. Even if this is true and someone has heard a compliment 500 times before, it still feels good to hear it for the 501st time.

Never underestimate the power of compliments when it comes to your friends, family, and romantic partners.

Remember:

It’s the little things in life that solidify and enrich our relationships. If you make it a point to point out something complimentary to the people you interact with daily, it will do wonders for how you’re viewed by others.

🗂️ The Resource Roundup

🎯 My "Principle #1" - Are you overwhelmed by doing too much and spreading yourself too thin? This article dives into Cal Newport’s “Do Fewer Things” principle, offering actionable strategies—like Warren Buffet’s 20-punch-card framework and memorized rules—to help you narrow your focus, boost quality, and achieve meaningful progress in life.

🚫 5 Strategies to Reduce Negative Thinking - Are your thoughts helping or hindering you? This insightful article offers five practical strategies to interrupt negative thinking patterns, helping you cultivate mindfulness, self-compassion, and a more balanced perspective on daily challenges.

🧘 Meditation: How to Meditate and Why It's Worth It - Curious about how meditation can strengthen your brain and improve emotional resilience? This article breaks down the science behind meditation’s stress-relieving and focus-enhancing benefits, offering practical insights for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike.

🧠 Rich in a Calm Mind - How can you make your mind a better place to live? This article offers three simple yet powerful tips—gratitude, a mindful social media “audit,” and the “3 C’s” morning habit—to help you cultivate joy, positivity, and meaningful connections daily.

💤 Daily Habits Like Sleep and Exercise Can Shape Brain Connectivity for Weeks - Ever wondered how your daily habits impact your brain long after the moment has passed? This article dives into groundbreaking research showing how sleep, exercise, and even your mood shape your brain's connectivity for weeks, offering fascinating insights into the long-term effects of your lifestyle choices.

That’s it for today.

If you live in the United States, then I’ll wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!

And for everyone else, I hope you have a great rest of your week.

Talk soon.

Cheers,

Steve Scott 

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