It’s easy to be thankful when everything is going well. When things aren’t going so well, it may be challenging to see the good. Gratitude, when life isn’t perfect in these moments, can feel counterintuitive, especially when challenges seem overwhelming and things are far from where you think they should be. But in these moments, more than ever, practicing gratitude and finding “enthusiasm” can be a powerful tool for shifting your perspective and finding light in the darkness.
When things aren’t going your way, why focus on what you’re thankful for when so much feels out of place? In this conscious world, gratitude is not about denying hardships; it’s about acknowledging the good that still exists alongside the struggle.

One way to look at gratitude is to give thanks. During hardship, Thanks can be in the form of a prayer: “Thank You, God, for the opportunity and experience to grow from God.”
Acknowledge the Simple Things in tough times—they don’t have to be grand. The comfort of a warm meal, a bed, the sound of rain or sunshine on your face, even a hot cup of coffee in the morning—these seemingly small things remind us that even in difficult moments, there are elements of life we can appreciate.

By shifting our focus on the challenge and amplifying negative feelings associated with it, we can focus on the little things that bring us peace and happiness. Gratitude allows you to shift your focus instead of fixating on what’s lacking or difficult.

With every down, there’s an up – The ebb and flow of the ocean. One does not exist without the other. With challenging times comes growth. While it might not be evident now, challenges shape us, helping us become more robust, resilient, and wiser. Expressing gratitude for this growth, even when the lessons are hard-earned, can reframe how you view the situation. Recognizing how you’ve grown, or are growing, through the struggle allows you to appreciate the process, even if the outcome is still uncertain.

When things are tough, our minds often wonder how much better things used to be or how we wish they would improve. Practicing gratitude helps ground us in the present moment. It encourages us to find something—right now—that you can appreciate. Whether it’s the breath in your lungs, the ability to move, or the people supporting you, gratitude brings your attention to the here and now, fostering a sense of peace amidst the chaos.

Gratitude doesn’t mean you have to ignore or invalidate your feelings of frustration, sadness, or anger. It’s okay to feel all of those emotions and still practice gratitude. In fact, allowing yourself to experience both the hardships and the things you’re thankful for creates a fuller, more authentic picture of life.

By finding light in challenging times, we can move forward more efficiently, focusing on what we want instead of getting stuck on obstacles. Gratitude helps us navigate life’s rough patches with a clearer heart and mind, reminding us that there’s always something worth appreciating—even when life feels far from perfect with perceived roadblocks.