A Little Gratitude Goes a Long Way

Seems like ever since 2020, as the years have drawn to a close, I think back and say to myself “sheesh, what a year it’s been.” And this year is no different. From worries about inflation and the economy, to politics and the environment, to lingering COVID concerns, it has undoubtedly been another stressful and turbulent year for everyone. 

At times like these, it can be easy to get overwhelmed and bogged down by the negative. I’m sure I’m not the only one that sometimes retreats into ‘Debbie Downer’ mode about the state of the world. 

Earlier this year, GutCheck launched an initiative called GutCheckonomics exploring how people were really feeling, and data from the spring and summer waves each revealed that people across generations and income levels were generally feeling pessimistic and had negative outlooks. But our latest wave from early November shows that maybe there’s a glimmer of optimism on the horizon.  

So that got me thinking. I try to continually keep things in perspective and remind myself of how much I have to be grateful for, even when times get ‘tough’, and never more so than when Thanksgiving comes around. 

As I reflect on this year, there are a few things that really stand out. This year more than most, I’m grateful for my family’s health and safety, and the fact that we will all be together for the holidays, and with the new addition of my niece who arrived in September. I’m grateful for my now fiancé, and the wedding we are in the midst of planning (something that frequently gives me stress and anxiety, but that I remind myself I am lucky and privileged to have the opportunity to stress about). While it may come across as a little predictable considering I am writing this post for GutCheck, I truly am so grateful to work with an amazing group of people that are incredibly intelligent and passionate about what they do, but who also genuinely care for and appreciate one another. It has been a transformative year for me both personally and professionally, and for that I am immensely grateful. 

Maybe it’s all the Hallmark movies I’ve been watching finally rubbing off on me, but I wanted to spread this hopefulness and gratitude I’m feeling by encouraging others to reflect on what they have to be thankful for this year as well.  

Here’s what some of my fellow GutCheckers had to share…

It’s no surprise that some of my coworkers are most grateful for family:

“I am thankful that my 16-year-old nephew is able to visit me for Thanksgiving – I promised him this trip two years ago, but COVID interrupted.” – Renee, Research Science

“I am grateful for my family and friends that support me and bring new types of joy to my life every day.” – Dan, Sales

Several share my sense of gratitude for our wonderful company and team:

“I’m especially grateful for the team we get to work with each day. From our Q4 hype video and spirit week, to the way my team has crushed their goals in the last two quarters… we get to come to work to do great work for our clients while also having fun. I’m thankful to work at such a special place!” – Shirey, Sales

“I am so thankful for the GutCheck team. Everyone is so welcoming, patient, generous with their time and knowledge, and willing to jump in to help and answer questions. It is wonderful to get to work with such smart and kind people.” – KC, People Ops

“I’m grateful for the incredible human beings I get to work with every day, and their enthusiasm, dedication, and most importantly – humor.” – Jess, Sales

Some are grateful for experiences and opportunities:

“I am thankful that three years post-back surgery, that I was able to train for an Ironman.” – Kate, Research Science

“The return of live music!! There isn’t anything quite like experiencing the sway of a song live, surrounded by the energy of a crowd immersed in the music. Sharing small interactions with strangers, hearing the stories behind the songs that have been on repeat in your mind for months, and getting the chance to just break it down – it is an understatement to say that I am grateful for the freedom and escape of experiencing live music.” – Carly, Sales

And like me, some couldn’t choose just one thing to be most grateful for:

“So many things to be thankful for this year! Our dog continuing to confound science and live a good life while fighting cancer; healing and growth in important relationships; excitement, growth, and opportunity professionally; family to create memories with over the upcoming holiday season.” – Scott, Marketing

“My health, and the health of my friends and family to be physically able to lead the lives we want and pursue our passions. I am thankful for the ability to work from home, which allows me to control my schedule, have stronger work/life balance, and gives me time back in my day to enjoy life. I am thankful to have a warm home with plenty of food and the love of those around me.” – Jessie, Sales

“Humor and resilience. I’m grateful for the ability to laugh and learn through challenging times, whether that is with amazing co-workers, friends, family or people I’ve met in the wild in life. Small joys. Fresh flowers, a good book, a hike outside with my dog, a weekend nap, baking, spending time with family and friends.” – Molly, Sales

“This year I’m grateful for having the ability to travel back home to visit family and friends. I’m also grateful for a new kitty, a new puppy, and a new adventure in my professional life.” – Dave, Marketing

“First, surprising my father on a big birthday year with 10 members of the Cincinnati Men’s Chorus showing up at his house to serenade him! Second, designing, building, and planting a very cool raised garden with my husband – every bit of it was joy and good learning. Third, loving the creative challenges and fine humans I am privileged to work with each day.” – Lisa, Sales

I don’t know about you but reading those comments and seeing what others appreciate in their lives puts a smile on my face. From family, opportunities and experiences, to jobs and coworkers, our team has a lot to be grateful for this year. And as a business, I know all of us at GutCheck are incredibly thankful for the amazing clients we get to partner with every day, who constantly inspire us to do our best work – helping them to really get to know the people they serve so they can treat them with understanding and empathy. 

I hope that no matter how you’re feeling about this year as 2022 quickly draws to a close, this inspires you to reflect and find something you are grateful for as well – it truly does wonders for the soul! 

As Albus Dumbledore famously said in Harry Potter, “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” 

Wishing you a healthy, happy, gratitude and light-filled Thanksgiving.