The power of gratitude

Gratitude is a simple yet powerful practice that can transform how we experience everyday life. Our team has shared some of the everyday things they feel thankful for.

Taking a moment to notice and appreciate what brings us joy—big or small—has been shown to boost mental wellbeing, strengthen relationships, and deepen our connection to the world around us. 

Whether it’s saying, “thank you,” pausing to enjoy a quiet moment, or reflecting on what matters most, gratitude can help bring more meaning and positivity into our days. 

Things we are grateful for 

We’ve asked some of our Walk in My Shoes team to share the things that they give thanks for. From warm mugs and quiet gardens to the unwavering support of loved ones and colleagues, their reflections remind us that gratitude doesn’t always come from grand gestures—it often lives in the smallest moments of our day.

Here are their responses:  

• I try to find gratitude in the small things - my first coffee (and all subsequent), my children’s small hands holding mine on my way to school, my husband’s ridiculous jokes, and finding a friend, colleague or anybody I can get a hold of to have a catch up with during the day.  I’m grateful that two years ago I started my first yoga class, setting me on a journey of strength and self-belief, mentally and physically. I also find a lot of joy in having nothing to do but read a book or watch a movie, although I can’t say it happens too often!   
• I’m grateful for many things, but especially for family and friends who, even though I see them less often as the years go by, always make the effort to stay connected - and when we do catch up, it feels as though no time has passed at all. 
• I am very grateful for my healthy body and mind. When I’m under the weather, I’m reminded how easy it is to take good health for granted. I give thanks for everything that works beautifully together to help me think, feel, and move. 
• I am grateful for the collaborative and compassionate team I work with – a group of people deeply committed to promoting positive mental health and advancing the rights of those experiencing mental health difficulties. Their dedication to creating a better world, not only for today but for future generations, is truly inspiring. Every day they bring energy, empathy, and expertise to their work, and I feel privileged to stand alongside them. 
• Grateful for the little things every day like my morning coffee, good conversations, meeting a friend for a walk and all the little moments that make life feel warm and full. I’m also very grateful for the bigger things like my health, my family and our lovely life.  
• I’m grateful for having a little garden to look out at and sit in when I need some quiet time. Seeing what’s grown over the week, spotting hedge sparrows and robins' flit in and out of the lilac bush and talking a minute to sit down and look at the (mostly overgrown!) plants, trees and bushes is something that I really appreciate and do not take for granted.  
• I am very grateful every day for my first cup of tea, especially on a cool morning when it warms my hands. I'm also very grateful for my pet dog who is nearly always in good form and gives me no option but to get out for our walks a few times a day. It's lovely watching his curiosity about the world around us and his interest in everything. I think we can all learn a lot about gratitude from our pets. 
• I would say I’m most grateful for the little things that can be easy to overlook! A coffee and a walk with good company, coming back to a cosy home and a warm dinner after a long day and getting to get out and get active in nature. 
• I am grateful for the fabulous team I get to be a part of and for the amazing friendships I’ve made with colleagues who brighten the workday just that little bit more! 

Why not take a moment to reflect on the things you are grateful for?