With Thanksgiving just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to reflect on all the things we are grateful for at Central Oregon Collective! Our amazing clients, staff, and mission keep us going each and every day and for that, we are SO thankful for everyone that’s a part of this wonderful family!
It’s easy to be grateful around here and practicing this gratitude can bring so much joy to your own life and the lives of others. Interested in joining us? Here are a few ways to bring a little more appreciation into your daily life:
LISTEN TO OTHERS Listening to others shows your gratitude to them by being genuinely interested in what they have to say. And hey, you can always learn from the different perspectives that people have to share!
PRACTICE MAKING EYE CONTACT Being present in conversation shows people you care. Practice making eye contact and truly engaging with those around you.
SHOW GRACE AND KINDNESS Towards you and others. You never know what someone else is going through, you aren’t always going to want to hear what others have to say, and sometimes we have to do things we don’t want to do but allowing space for grace, kindness, and humility is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and those around you.
CELEBRATE OTHERS ACHIEVEMENTS Encourage others and celebrate their hard work and accomplishments. Treat others’ joy as if it’s your own.
WRITE SOMEONE A NOTE Let people know you’re thinking of them. Thank you notes or even simple messages can brighten someone’s day!
HELP SOMEONE IN NEED Random acts of kindness, even towards strangers create a world of inclusion and empathy.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO APOLOGIZE Learn how to compromise and take responsibility. We’re all human with varying emotions, saying you’re sorry is a way to appreciate experience and practice acceptance.
GIVE SOMEONE A COMPLIMENT Big or small, you can turn someone’s day around just by taking the time to notice something you appreciate about them.
DONATE TO CHARITY OR VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME Think about the things you don’t really need. Material or not, even your time can make a difference and put things into perspective!
BE THERE FOR A FRIEND Whether that be taking on an annoying errand for someone or simply giving a hug and saying you’re there if they need anything, nurture your connections and let yourself be someone to rely on. We can also mention that being there for others will always come back around when it’s you that needs it most!
PRACTICE PATIENCE Remember that everyone has their own struggles, being patient and understanding (even though hard at times) shows others that you care about what they may be going through too.
WRITE DOWN WHAT YOU’RE THANKFUL FOR Document your blessings! Reflecting on what you’re thankful for can eliminate negative thoughts and help you focus on all the good that you are surrounded by. It’s easy to get wrapped up in daily stressors, take the time to acknowledge what you do have.
SMILE This is one of the simplest acts of gratitude and we all know how contagious a smile can be!
HAVE YOUR FRIENDS OR FAMILY OVER FOR A VISIT Whether there’s a reason or none whatsoever, show your people you care by hosting and visiting with them.
GIVE A SMALL, THOUGHTFUL GIFT Similar to writing someone a sweet note, thoughtful, personal gestures go so far these days.
PAY IT FORWARD Think about a time that someone did something nice for you, just because. How good did that make you feel? Oftentimes, we don’t even know how much of a difference the little things can make. Help someone jump their car, buy the person behind you in line a coffee, hold open a door, and watch as others pay it forward.
We envision communities of full inclusion, personal choice, and meaningful contribution for all! With these practices of gratitude, we can all work together to foster passion, mutual respect, and generosity.
Wishing everyone a wonderful season of gratitude and giving!
Want to get involved with our organization? Visit our website for our current career and donation opportunities!
www.inthecollective.com