To all my readers in the United States, I want to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving. May
this holiday be filled with warmth, gratitude, and meaningful moments with those you care about most. No matter where you are on your financial journey, I hope you find time to celebrate your progress and the abundance already present in your life.
Thanksgiving is more than a holiday—it's a moment to pause, look back, and recognize how far we've come. I still remember a Thanksgiving years ago when my financial journey felt like a never-ending climb. I was sitting at my kitchen
table, surrounded by bills, wondering if I'd ever reach the sense of security and freedom I craved. But as I looked around at my family, I realized something powerful: even in the midst of uncertainty, there was so much to be grateful for.
Looking Back: Measuring Progress Beyond the Numbers
It's easy to measure financial freedom by milestones—debt paid off, investments made, net worth tracked. But true progress is about more than numbers. It's about
resilience, the lessons learned from setbacks, and the confidence that grows with every step. Whether you’re just starting to budget, building your first emergency fund, or managing a diverse portfolio, every stage deserves recognition and gratitude.
The Power of Gratitude on the Wealth Journey
Gratitude is a mindset, not a destination. When you focus on what you have accomplished—no matter how small—you build momentum. I’ve seen this in my own life and in
the stories readers have shared with me. One reader wrote this year about finally setting aside $500 in savings after years of living paycheck to paycheck. Another celebrated reaching $100,000 in investments, a goal that once felt impossible. Both milestones matter, and both are worthy of gratitude.
Gratitude isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about seeing clearly. When you appreciate your progress, you’re less likely to compare yourself to others or feel discouraged by how
far you still have to go. This mindset shift is the foundation of financial freedom.
Action Steps: How to Practice Financial Gratitude This Thanksgiving
Reflect on the Past Year: Write down three financial wins from 2025—big or small. Did you pay off a debt, increase your savings, or simply stick to a new habit?
Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection: Acknowledge the setbacks and what they taught you. Every
challenge is a lesson in resilience.
Share Your Gratitude: Tell a friend, partner, or family member what you appreciate about their support on your journey. Gratitude grows when shared.
Set an Intention for 2026: Use this season of reflection to set one clear financial intention for the new year, grounded in gratitude for how far you’ve come.
Personal Reflection: Gratitude in My Own Journey
Looking
back, I’m grateful for every financial mistake, every moment of doubt, and every small win along the way. Each experience has shaped my mindset and strengthened my resolve to keep moving forward. If you’re reading this, you’re already on the right path. Don’t underestimate the power of gratitude to fuel your next step.
Moving Forward: Gratitude as a Wealth-Building Habit
This Thanksgiving, let gratitude be your compass. No matter where you are on the journey to financial
freedom, take a moment to honor your progress and set your sights on what’s next. Remember—every stage, every lesson, and every act of appreciation brings you closer to the life you envision.