Take the challenge

By Anastasia Warren

It’s that time of year again. Time to set the table, baste the turkey, take the pumpkin pie out of the oven, and eat… probably a little too much.

It is a couple of days off from work, a time to see family and friends, and a time to prepare for the approaching end of the year.

It can often seem more stressful than not, trying to get together with loved ones, making sure things are in order, ensuring you don’t miss the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on TV. Not to mention, leaving work can be hectic and the thought of returning after the holiday can sometimes seem daunting.

This is all true, yes. And most of the time, these logistical and detailed items are what our minds focus on during the holiday season.

What I challenge you to do this year, is focus on the word itself. Thanks-giving.

This holiday, take the time to give thanks. Take the time to appreciate what you have. Take the time to practice gratitude.

Take the time – give thanks this holiday.

I have recently noticed an increase in appreciation at our company. Employees and management both extending gratitude “just because.” Whether it’s thanking the company for being an exceptional place to work, or thanking employees for creating such a cohesive and fun environment – appreciation has been apparent as of late.

Giving thanks often gets lost amid the everyday grind of emails, personal life, and obligations.

And so again, this holiday, I challenge you to not only give thanks and practice gratitude internally, but also to let others know you are thankful for them. Let them know they are valued.

Don’t burn the turkey, but don’t forget about the important stuff as well. And maybe, this mentality can carry on past the holiday of thanks. Maybe, it can be a new way of thinking for the end of the year and beyond.

Take the challenge – give thanks.