As we move into September, the air gets a little crisper, the leaves start to change, and fall reminds us to slow down and take in the beauty around us. It’s also a season that naturally brings gratitude to the surface as we look ahead to Thanksgiving.

Over the past year, I’ve started a daily practice that has completely changed the way I begin my mornings. It’s simple, takes only a few minutes, and leaves me feeling more grounded, calm, and grateful for the life I get to live.

My Morning Gratitude Practice

Every morning — whether it’s 5 a.m. on a school day or 9 a.m. on a lazy Saturday — I grab my coffee, sit down, and write out 10 things I’m grateful for.

Sometimes it’s big, meaningful things like my health, my family, or the ability to buy groceries. Other times, it’s small joys: the smell of fresh laundry, the sound of football practice, a butterfly I spotted the day before, or even my trusty fan on a hot day.

No matter what makes the list, this practice helps me pause and notice the good around me. It keeps me present and allows me to reflect on the day before while starting the new day with a full heart.

Why Gratitude Matters

Writing down what I’m thankful for is more than just a list. It’s a way of:

• Grounding myself in the moment.

• Noticing the little things that bring happiness.

• Starting the day with intention, instead of rushing into the to-do list.

• Building a habit of joy that carries into my work, family, and business.

The best part? It doesn’t have to be perfect. Some days my list repeats. Some days I forget and catch up the next morning. The point is consistency and the choice to keep coming back to it.

Give It a Try

If you’ve never tried this practice — or maybe you tried once and didn’t stick with it — I encourage you to start again. Give yourself a week, two weeks, or even a month. You’ll be surprised at how it shifts your mindset and how you begin to see everyday life through a more grateful lens.

I’d love to hear if you try this practice! Send me a message and let me know how your gratitude list is going. And if you’re looking for ways to carry this same sense of reflection and joy into your family or business photos, let’s connect. Photography is another beautiful way to pause, notice the moment, and create something to be thankful for.