5 Things to Be Grateful For in a Season of Exhaustion

The evenings are dark, the air is chilly -- it's November. While November has so much for us to celebrate (think warm coffee drinks, spiced-apple candles, Netflix nights, mulled wine, the list goes on), there are times where we find ourselves feeling exhausted and cold, both physically and mentally.

So, in a season when we're feeling decision fatigue after long days of work and expressing gratitude seems like a chore, here are five simple things we can focus on and be grateful for that only involve yourself.

1. Your commute

Yep, you heard that correctly. Whereas a commute can be someone's least favorite part of the day, I have grown to enjoy this time. It's PURE alone time. Yes, traffic and constant red lights can be frustrating. To combat this, set up your car space to be clean and organized. That means going through the center console and taking out the straw wrappers and receipts. Clear out your cupholders of old Starbucks cups. Add an air freshener! Get a travel mug that you'll love sipping out of!

And if you don't have a commute? Your commute to your morning coffee in the kitchen still counts. Set up your kitchen to be clean and ready for you in the morning. Have your slippers out to slip your feet into when your alarm rings. What are you listening to as you tread to the next room of your home? This comes before your morning routine!

2. Youtube

Have you tried setting up an "ambience" for yourself with Youtube? It can completely change the vibe of whatever room or situation you're in. When I walk into my dark classroom in the morning, one of the first things I do is project Youtube on my screen with an ambience video that matches the vibe I want to cultivate for the day.

Raining and chilly outside? Try "rainy day ambience." Excited for Christmas break? Try "winter holiday ambience" or "fireplace ambience."

3. Your evening shower

As an English teacher, I'm allll about symbolism. Water and rain traditionally symbolize renewal, cleansing, and calmness. Thus, I've come to cherish my evening shower. It's not something I rush through anymore before dinner. I play a podcast, use body scrubs, take deep breaths, and just really wash off the stresses of the day.

4. Your favorite sweatshirt

Everyone needs an oversized hoodie. Whether it's designer, a hand-me-down from your brother or father, your partner's, or from Walmart, find yourself a hoodie that you can crawl into after a long day. There's a lot out there about perfect aesthetics and matching sets, but never underestimate the power of that oversized sweatshirt. It's the ultimate comfort piece after a long day of work.

5. Having a job that pays the bills

Sometimes, work can feel all-consuming. We dread that alarm going off. We're overwhelmed by our to-do lists or intimidated by our bosses. That's OK -- our feelings are valid. However, when all of that is piling up, I really try to be grateful that I even have a job in the first place.

As a teacher, it's no secret that my paycheck is low...but, hey, every two weeks, I receive the money I need to keep my home warm, to buy food for my cats who comfort me, to pick up Chipotle after a long day. And for that alone, I'm grateful.

To all, happy Thanksgiving. There is always something to be grateful for, even in those seasons where the everyday seems overwhelming. ~ TCT