Sometimes life feels like one big tragedy, doesn’t it? Things pile up, one after another, and it feels like there’s no end in sight. Whether you’re facing personal loss, going through tough times at work, dealing with health issues, or just feeling overwhelmed by everything happening around you, it’s easy to forget the small things that can still bring a little bit of peace or joy. But here’s the thing: even in the most difficult of times, there are little moments and simple things that are worth appreciating. When everything feels heavy, it’s those little things that can make a huge difference. Here are some little things to be thankful for when life doesn’t seem to be going your way.
The support of friends and family
Even if you don’t feel like you’re surrounded by a huge crowd of people, the support of even just one or two close friends or family members can mean everything. It might not fix your problems, but having someone listen, offer a kind word, or simply be there for you in silence is a reminder that you’re not alone in the world. Those little moments of connection can provide comfort and strength during the darkest days.
The sound of rain or birds chirping
Sometimes, the world outside can be a great source of comfort when the world inside feels like it’s falling apart. The sound of rain hitting the window or birds chirping early in the morning may seem small, but they remind us that life continues, regardless of our struggles. Nature has a way of grounding us, and when everything feels chaotic, these little sounds can offer a moment of peace.
A warm cup of tea or coffee
There’s something about the ritual of preparing a warm drink that can bring a small sense of calm in the midst of a storm. Whether you’re a coffee person or a tea drinker, just holding that cup and taking a few moments to enjoy it can offer a brief pause from the stress. It’s a small thing, but it’s a reminder to take a break, breathe, and nourish your body. In those moments, it’s okay to just be present.
A comfortable blanket
When life feels like a series of endless challenges, the simple act of wrapping yourself in a cosy blanket can provide a surprising amount of comfort. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just feeling drained, curling up under a soft blanket feels like a hug for your soul. It’s a small act of self-care that reminds you there are still things in the world that can make you feel safe and comforted.
Your health, even if it’s not perfect
It’s easy to take our health for granted, especially when we’re feeling low or unwell. But even when you’re not feeling 100%, your body is still doing so much for you. Being able to move, breathe, eat, and sleep are all small miracles that we sometimes overlook when life feels overwhelming. Being thankful for your health, even in its imperfections, can help shift your perspective during hard times.
A good book or movie
Escaping into a good book or movie, even just for a little while, can offer a brief respite from life’s struggles. Stories allow us to step out of our own world and into someone else’s, giving us the mental space to breathe. Whether it’s a favourite book that you’ve read a dozen times or a new movie that takes you somewhere else entirely, a good story has the power to momentarily pull you away from the weight of your troubles.
Laughter
Laughter may feel like a distant memory when you’re going through tough times, but finding moments to laugh, even if they’re small or fleeting, can help you reconnect with joy. It could be a funny meme, a silly video, or a joke shared with a friend. Laughter is a reminder that no matter how hard life gets, there’s always room for joy. And even in the darkest moments, it’s okay to laugh.
A hot shower or bath
When you’re feeling down, a hot shower or bath can do wonders for your mind and body. It’s a simple act, but the warmth of the water, the soothing scent of your favourite body wash, and the quiet time to yourself can help you reset, even if just for a few minutes. It’s a moment of self-care that can make you feel like you’re taking charge, even when everything else feels out of control.
A pet’s love
If you have a pet, you know just how much their presence can make a difference. Whether it’s the unconditional love of a dog or the quiet companionship of a cat, animals have a way of offering comfort without words. Their loyalty and affection don’t come with conditions or expectations. Sometimes, just being in the company of a pet can remind you that love is simple and pure, no matter how complicated life gets.
The ability to rest
When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to feel guilty for needing rest. But the ability to rest and recharge is something to be thankful for. Whether it’s a full night’s sleep or a few moments of quiet time, giving yourself permission to rest helps your body and mind recover. Rest is not laziness; it’s an essential part of taking care of yourself so you can face life’s challenges with more resilience.
The sun on your face
When you step outside and feel the warmth of the sun on your skin — a rarity in Britain, I know — it’s a small but powerful reminder that life is still moving forward. Even on the hardest days, the sun rises and sets, providing us with the energy we need to keep going. Even if you’re just outside for a few minutes, taking in that moment of sunshine can help lift your spirits and remind you that there are still beautiful moments in each day.
Small achievements
When everything feels wrong, celebrating small wins can help you regain a sense of control. It might be something as simple as getting out of bed, making your bed, or completing a task that you’ve been putting off. Each little achievement is a victory, and even though they might feel insignificant in the grand scheme of things, they’re proof that you’re still moving forward.
Fresh air
Sometimes, all it takes is stepping outside and taking a deep breath of fresh air to remind yourself that you are alive. Fresh air has a way of clearing your mind, making everything feel a little more manageable. A brief walk around the block or simply standing outside for a few minutes can help you reset, giving you the space to breathe deeply and take in the world around you.
The possibility of change
One of the biggest things to be thankful for, especially when you’re facing tough times, is the ability to change. No matter how bad things feel right now, the fact that life is constantly moving and evolving means that you have the ability to make a change when you’re ready. It might not happen immediately, but you have the power to make decisions that can move you toward a better place, even if it takes time.
