Embracing Change with Gratitude: Simple Ways to Stay Grounded in Uncertain Times

Fall is here, and with it comes so much change—cooler days, shorter sunlight, and nature shedding its layers. For me, fall has always been a reminder of how life shifts in ways we can’t always control. Whether it’s moving to a new place, adjusting to life with a fiancé who’s often deployed, or just navigating the ups and downs of everyday life, change can feel overwhelming. And let me be real—there are days when gratitude is the last thing on my mind. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that cultivating gratitude has been my saving grace during life’s transitions.

So, if you’re also feeling the weight of change, I want to share some ways I’ve learned to lean into gratitude—even when life feels like it’s all over the place.

Start Small: Find Joy in the Little Things

Gratitude doesn’t have to be some huge, grand gesture. Trust me, I used to think I had to wait for something major to happen before I could be thankful. But now I start with the tiniest moments—things like my morning cup of coffee or a quick text from my fiancé while he’s away. Seriously, it’s those little, everyday joys that keep me going.

Try this: Each morning, write down three things you’re grateful for from the day before—no matter how small. It could be something as simple as a cozy sweater or a smile from a stranger. You’ll start to notice more good in your life once you make a habit of looking for it.

Reflect on Growth: Look Back to Move Forward

Let’s be honest—change is tough. But if you look back on your life, I bet you’ll notice some of the hardest transitions are the ones that shaped you the most. I’ve had my fair share of struggles—like adjusting to a new city, and new job, while dealing with my fiancé’s deployment. But when I reflect on those experiences, I realize how much I’ve grown. It’s those tough times that make me appreciate where I am now.

Try this: Take a moment to think about a past challenge you overcame. What did you learn from it? How did it make you stronger? Write it down and express gratitude for the growth you’ve experienced. You’ll be amazed at how far you’ve come.

Lean on Support: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

I don’t know about you, but I tend to think I can handle everything on my own—until life humbles me and reminds me that I need support. When my fiancé is away, I lean heavily on my friends, family, and my faith. And I’m so grateful for the people who show up for me. Having a solid support system makes all the difference when life feels shaky.

Try this: Make a gratitude list of the people who have supported you, and let them know you appreciate them. Send a quick message or even write them a note. And if you need help, don’t hesitate to ask—there’s no shame in leaning on others when you need it.

Gratitude in Faith: Trust the Bigger Picture

This is where my faith comes in. When things feel out of my control, I remind myself that there’s a bigger plan at work. Trusting God’s timing and purpose, especially when I can’t see the full picture, has helped me embrace change with less fear and more peace. Gratitude isn’t just about feeling good; it’s about trusting that, even in difficult moments, there’s a reason to be thankful.

Try this: Set aside time each day to pray or reflect on the blessings in your life. Even when things feel uncertain, trust that there’s a purpose in every season. You can also start a gratitude journal specifically for your faith—writing down where you see God’s hand at work in your life.

Gratitude is a Practice, Not a Feeling

Here’s the thing: gratitude isn’t always a natural response, especially when life throws curveballs. But it is a practice, and the more you make it part of your daily routine, the easier it becomes. So, if you’re going through a big change right now—whether it’s exciting, scary, or a little bit of both—I encourage you to focus on the things you can be grateful for. You’ll be surprised at how much it helps you stay grounded, even in the middle of a storm.

Let’s embrace this season of change together, knowing that gratitude will carry us through it with grace.