Thanksgiving is right around the corner. You probably don’t need another reminder to be thankful; the season is full of them. This year, we invite you to take a different approach to gratitude. 

Listing the things that you are thankful for can be a great practice for improving positivity and social awareness, but living out your gratitude is an even more fulfilling step to connecting to the people and things around you. Here are some practical ways to live out your gratitude this holiday season.  

Take the extra step and let those around you know that you are grateful for their presence. Hand-write letters to your friends, telling them how much you value them. Plan a special outing for a friend or romantic partner tailored to their interests, showing them that you admire their individuality. Call your parents and grandparents, just to chat and hear about their day. 

Send an email or note thanking your professors. We all know not every professor is necessarily impactful, so it is important to show gratitude for those that are. Whether they led you to an epiphany, explained things in an enriching way, made you laugh or simply because you enjoyed the format of their syllabus, every professor that influenced you in a positive way deserves to know it.  

Go on a walk and be grateful for the colorful trees. The red and orange leaves will not be here for much longer, and neither will the walkable weather. Embrace the beauty of the outdoors and your freedom to get outside and take a walk. 

Don’t forget about the community around you which meets your needs. Leave a positive online review for your favorite shop or restaurant. Business owners always appreciate knowing how their work impacts others. 

In college, it can be easy to get into a cycle of comparison, seeing only the things you lack. Instead, focus on abundance. What areas of your life have you been blessed in? Maybe you have an abundance of wonderful, caring friends, a knack for teaching or a talent for playing music. Think of a way to give back in this area of abundance, volunteering your time, talents or financial resources. Volunteering, especially with friends and family, helps you engage with your community and further recognize the gifts you have been given. 

Sharing your gratitude with others improves your relationships and creates a cycle of kindness and a stronger community. This year, we invite you to act on your gratitude and GIVE thanks to those around you. Happy Thanksgiving!