As I stop to reflect on the past year, I realize just how much I have to be thankful for - challenges and all.
No matter where you live, what you celebrate or how, taking a moment for appreciation and gratitude can really put things in perspective - and positive light.
It hasn't been a particularly easy year for me. It's been full of loss and challenges that, at times, brought my life to a screeching halt. Many of which turned out to be powerful turning points, and a serious motivation to execute positive change...
This morning I committed myself to an exercise in gratitude. I made a list of things I am grateful for, and all the wonderful things in my life that I appreciate so very much. I'll confess that it didn't come easy at first, but in the end I had 20 very powerful statements staring back at me.
Interestingly, it was some of those bigger challenges that resulted in the things I am incredibly thankful for now. Life has a way of pushing you in the right direction, even when it's uncomfortable - or downright painful.
I'm thankful this year is coming to an end, LOL. 
Gratitude is powerful. Even when life isn't being kind, it pays to appreciate the positives. Or even to appreciate the challenge at hand, knowing it will shape you into a better person and lead you in a better direction.
I encourage you to try the exercise in gratitude. It's amazing how it can change your perspective and affect your attitude, and how much it will motivate you to achieve even more things to be thankful for in the months and years to come.
For those of you celebrating, I wish you a beautiful Thanksgiving Day!
May your life be full of love, happiness and success.
Best,
