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Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. I always look forward to spending time with my family and enjoy seeing how we’ve grown and evolved over the years. This past year has marked many changes in my life; some wonderful and some sad. But no matter what has happened, I always like to take a moment this time of year to look back and reflect on the many reasons I have to be thankful, and how I can keep a grateful mind-set all year long.
Family
This past year I have experienced great loss and extreme joy. This past weekend, I reflected on the lessons I have learned from my parents, especially my father. His example has shaped me in both my personal and professional life, and has taught me to be passionate, confident, grateful and considerate in all that I do.
On the other hand, watching my first grand-daughter grow and welcoming my second grand-daughter into the world just days ago, has humbled me on so many levels. I am just in awe of them and am constantly amazed at how much I have learned from them. They have taught me so many lessons on the importance of slowing down, living every moment, and enjoying the blessings in my life.
Career
This past weekend I also reflected on my career and how fortunate I am to have a job that allows me to pursue my passions. I truly love what I do! I am extremely grateful for the opportunities I have to work with clients; learning their stories, hearing about their goals and dreams, and walking alongside them as we work together to make their dreams a reality. I also love the opportunities to educate my clients about the many different lifestyles, communities and niches that Staten Island has to offer. The friendships I have developed and the partnerships I have formed through these pursuits has left me inspired and encouraged each and every day.
Ways to show gratitude
Growing up in a family business has taught me the importance of being grateful and expressing that gratitude to those around you, especially in the workplace. In a fast-paced society that is always pushing us to be better, stronger and more successful, it is far too easy to take things and people for granted. We easily forget about what we have been blessed with and the lessons we have learned while we are striving toward the next goal.
I have learned some important lessons on gratitude over the years from many important people in my life. The birth of my second grand-daughter allowed me to pause for a moment this past weekend and reflect on what I have to be thankful for and how I can show that gratitude year-round.
Count your blessings– take time to write down a positive experience or a few things that you are thankful for every day. Keep this list in a journal that is easily accessible to you.
Express your gratitude– don’t be afraid to say “thank you” or verbalize your appreciation for a family member, co-worker or friend. Be genuine and sincere with your thanks and you’d be surprised as to the impact it can have on you and those around you.
Show respect– treat those around you with courtesy and respect. Show kindness, patience and good listening skills.
Don’t Complain– at least not out-loud. It is natural to be upset when things don’t go our way, but dwelling on them can create a downward spiral of negativity. Attitude is everything.
Get involved– volunteering in your community can actually have more of an impact on you than on the organization you are serving. Random acts of kindness are known to go a long way.
I hope you have not only taken the time this Thanksgiving to reflect on what you are thankful for, but will continue to remember these blessings year-round. If you are looking to buy a home or Staten Island real estate and want to know more, please don’t hesitate to contact me on Facebook or Twitter. Even better, my website is full of helpful information about the different North Shore neighborhoods, local businesses, news and events.
Have an extraordinary day! I Look forward to meeting up soon!
