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Hey you 😊 

I hope you are surrounded by good food, good company, and good vibes this holiday break! Thanksgiving is here: a perfect time to pause, reflect, and, most importantly, express gratitude.

Before I dive in, I want to share something personal. This week, I faced a big career rejection. It came at a big shock to me because quite frankly I simply was not expecting it. I’m still figuring out how to process it. And while there’s some feelings of denial and discontent, I also feel extremely grateful to be who I am, where I am. (p.s. I’ll share more on this story and rejection later)

For now, let’s talk about gratitude. Not just the “I’m thankful for my family and friends” b.s.(though, of course, I am!), but the deeper, quieter moments of appreciation we often overlook.

🗣️ The Power of a Thank-You

Ever noticed how saying “thank you” feels just as good as hearing it? Gratitude is one of those rare things that benefits both the giver and the receiver.

• It strengthens relationships.

• It boosts mental health.

• It even makes you more resilient during tough times.

Let me share a quick story: a college friend and I had lost touch over the years. The other day, I was listening to a song we used to jam out to all the time. I could’ve just smiled at the memory and moved on, but instead, I decided to take an extra step. I sent her a video of me dancing to the song with a message that said, “I know it’s been a while, but I really miss us jamming out to this in college.”

She replied almost instantly, “Wow, this made my day! let’s do it again!” I could tell she had a big smile on her face, and honestly, it made my day too.

It’s so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and forget to show gratitude. We silo ourselves into our routines, letting these small but meaningful connections slip away. So, here’s a challenge for you: in the last month of 2024, take a moment to go beyond the usual “thanks.” Reach out to someone who’s made a difference in your life: maybe a mentor, a friend, or a colleague who always has your back.

Send them a text, write them a note, or say it in person. Trust me, it’ll make their day; and yours too.

🤎 A Personal Gratitude List

Here are a few things I’m especially grateful for this year:

• The ability to create and connect: Whether it’s through this newsletter, my work, or personal projects, I’m thankful for the chance to share ideas and learn from all of you.

• The small joys: Morning tea (obviously!), quiet moments to reflect, and the people who make me laugh when I need it most.

• The growth moments: Even the challenges this year brought taught me something valuable about myself, my goals, and what I want to prioritize.

• Launching my book: Seeing an idea I worked so hard on come to life and knowing it’s resonating with others has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my year.

• Growing my community to 1,000 subscribers: This milestone feels like a testament to the power of connection, and it motivates me to keep creating content that adds value to your lives.

• Most importantly, YOU: Your support, feedback, and encouragement mean everything to me. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or just joined, thank you for being part of this journey.

Your turn: What’s on your gratitude list? Reply and let me know! I’d love to hear 😃 

📆 Gratitude Everyday

I used to think gratitude was just a “Thanksgiving thing.” You say your thank-yous, feel warm and fuzzy during the holidays, and then move on. But over the past few years, I’ve realized how powerful it is to internalize gratitude.

I’m not just talking about saying “thanks” once in a while, I mean practicing mindfulness every season, every week, and every month. (Notice I didn’t say every day, because let’s be real: some days just suck, and that’s okay.)

This year, I created little pockets of gratitude for myself: a solo coffee date, a morning walk, or a late-night stargazing session. During those moments, I slowed my breath and reflected on everything that brings me joy: the sun, the tea, the people, the experiences, and even the challenges that shape who I am.

At the end of each moment, I’d take a deep breath, hold it in, and let it go, reminding myself that the mix of good and bad is what makes me me. And I’m so happy to be able to live this thing called life.

That said, practicing gratitude is so much easier said than done. So, here are a few simple ways to make it a regular part of your routine:

1. Take a gratitude day: Set aside time every week or month to slow down. Go on a solo coffee date, take a walk, or simply sit quietly under the stars. Breathe in, reflect on what you’re thankful for, and let it all out with a sense of peace.

2. Write It Down: Keep a running list of things you’re thankful for. Big or small, write them all down. It’s a great pick-me-up on tough days. I do this on my computer AND on a notebook.

3. Pay It Forward: Buy someone a coffee, send a random “thinking of you” text, or lend a helping hand. Little acts of kindness go a long way.

4. Celebrate Progress: Instead of focusing on what’s left to do, take a moment to acknowledge how far you’ve come this year. Even baby steps deserve a cheer!

💭 Closing Thoughts

As we wrap up another year, I just want to say how grateful I am for YOU. Whether you’ve been reading this newsletter from the start or just joined recently, thank you for letting me be part of your journey.

I hope your Thanksgiving is filled with love, laughter, and maybe even an extra slice of pie (you’ve earned it!).

What’s one thing you’re thankful for this year? Just reply to this email - I’d love to hear your gratitude story 😊 

Cheers to all the good things in life, big and small.

With gratitude,
Radhika

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