When life throws us a curveball, it’s natural to focus on what we’ve lost. The paycheck, the title, the daily routine, the sense of purpose. It’s easy to spiral into stress or fear about what comes next.
But what if, in the middle of all that, we took a moment to pause and look at what we still have?
That’s the power of gratitude. And right now, I need it more than ever. Maybe you do as well.
Gratitude isn’t just “positive thinking”
Gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring the hard stuff. It’s not about putting on a fake smile or pretending you’re fine when you’re not. Gratitude is simply noticing the good that’s still there, even when life feels heavy.
It’s not a magic cure. But science shows that practicing gratitude consistently can boost mental health, reduce stress, and help us recover faster from setbacks.
And during a time of layoffs or personal setbacks, that can make all the difference.
Why gratitude helps even when times are tough
Here are some real, research-backed reasons gratitude works, especially when life gets hard:
1. It rewires your brain
Studies from institutions like UC Berkeley and Harvard show that gratitude helps activate brain areas linked to happiness and empathy. Over time, it helps shift your mindset: from focusing on threats to seeing opportunities.
2. It boosts mental health
Grateful people report lower rates of anxiety and depression. It’s not about denying negative feelings, but about balancing them with a sense of hope. A few minutes a day reflecting on what’s going right can keep the tough stuff from overwhelming you.
3. It builds resilience
Think of gratitude as a kind of emotional muscle. When you regularly practice it, you train your brain to bounce back more quickly after setbacks. The pain won’t disappear. But it doesn’t have to define you.
How you can practice gratitude today
Gratitude works best when it’s simple and consistent. Here are a few ways to start:
- Each night, write down three things you’re grateful for. Big or small—it doesn’t matter. Just be honest.
- Think of one person who helped you this week. Send a short message. You’ll both feel better.
- Take a walk and notice the good around you: a neighbor’s garden, a quiet street, the sound of birds.
- Write down one good thing each day and drop it in a jar. On tough days, read a few.
Consistency matters more than size. Even 60 seconds a day can shift your mindset over time.
Why gratitude now?
In good times, gratitude is a nice idea. In hard times, it’s a lifeline.
It reminds us that we are more than our jobs. That support still exists. That we have value beyond our resume. It doesn’t mean we don’t hurt. It means we can hurt and still see beauty, connection, and hope.
So if you’re in the middle of a storm, pause.
Look around. Name something, or someone, you’re grateful for.
You might be surprised how much lighter the load feels.
One last challenge: Text one person today and say, “Hey. I was just thinking about you. I’m really grateful for your support.”
It’s a small action.
But it can open a door, strengthen a bond, or brighten someone’s day. Including yours.
Dan O'Brien | Author & Consultant 