20 Simple Ways to Cultivate Gratitude

Gratitude isn’t something we stumble into; it’s something we intentionally cultivate. And the more we practice it, the more our minds shift, our hearts soften, and our days fill with unexpected joy. Here are 20 simple, everyday ways to cultivate a heart of thanksgiving to God. Small moments, repeated over time, can change your perspective. 

1. Start a 3-Things Journal

Every morning or night, write down three things you’re grateful for. Keep it simple: warm coffee, a kind text, a quiet minute with Jesus.

2. Take a Gratitude Walk

Walk slowly and notice the small things; the breeze, the sun, the trees, the sound of your footsteps.

3. Pray “Thank You” Out Loud

Before getting out of bed, whisper, “Thank you, God, for another day.”

4. Practice Stillness

Sit still for 2 minutes and notice one thing you appreciate.

5. Flip Complaints Into Gratitude

Instead of “I hate this traffic,” flip it to “I’m so grateful to have a car to drive.”

6. Send a Text of Appreciation

Tell someone, “I’m grateful for you.” It takes 10 seconds and changes both hearts.

7. Keep a Running Gratitude Note on Your Phone

Add to it throughout the day whenever something good happens.

8. Reframe Your “Have to” as a “Get to”

“I have to cook dinner” becomes “I get to feed my family.”

9. Create a Gratitude Jar

Write small blessings on slips of paper and collect them over time. Try reading them on New Year’s to reflect on the blessings of the year.

10. Celebrate Small Wins

Don’t overlook the small wins. Look for ways you can celebrate small milestones for you or your loved ones. 

11. Practice Giving Thanks Before Meals

Pause and thank God for provision before eating your meals. 

12. Eliminate Comparisons

Notice the places where your gratitude gets robbed (like social media) and set boundaries. Unfollow any account that breeds discontentment. 

13. Pray Gratitude Prayers Throughout the Day

Short and simple: “Thank you, God, for being with me right now.”

14. Make a “Blessed Not Stressed” List

When stressed, list three blessings in the same situation.

15. Create a Family Gratitude Ritual

At dinner or bedtime, share one thing you’re thankful for.

16. Smile at People

Gratitude grows when you spread it.

17. Keep a “God’s Faithfulness” List

Document answered prayers, big and small.

18. Turn Memories Into Gratitude

Flip through old pictures and thank God for the people and seasons in them.

19. End Your Day With Reflection

Ask yourself, “Where did I see God’s goodness today?”

20. Don’t Take Anything For Granted

Take time to thank God for the things you normally take for granted, like the breath in your lungs, the food in your fridge, and the clothes you are wearing.