World Gratitude Day is TODAY!

Today is World Gratitude Day!

Yes, it’s true…every day is a day to be grateful! And I agree.  But there’s something special about having a dedicated day to celebrate something – anything – big or small. Like Thanksgiving, Random Act of Kindness Day (February 17) or birthdays…there should always be a reason to celebrate, surprise a loved one (or stranger), eat cake and make a wish or two!

Today is a lovely reminder for me to cherish the things that matter most in life. I’m not sure what you hold in high regard, but here’s a few of the things that matter to me…

  • Family (real or chosen)
  • Friends (life-long kinds of friends where just being ‘you’ is not only enough, it’s so highly valued)
  • Good health (truly a blessing)
  • The opportunity to use our gifts and talents (Imagine the difference made in the world!)
  • To love and be loved (to the core)
  • Freedom and autonomy
  • Spirituality (whatever you believe in)
  • Living with ease and not too much stress
  • Beloved pets (such unconditional love)
  • Laughter (truly the best medicine)
  • Living with a sense of fulfilment (Imagine that!)

For me, these are some of the things I cherish and value most in life and am extremely grateful for (the beyond words kind of grateful!).

I woke up this morning to a message from one of the most special people I know, that simply said, “I just heard that today is your day – World Gratitude Day! I am grateful for you, my friend. Have a great day!”  The thoughtfulness of my friend almost brought me to tears and to my knees in gratitude. I feel so incredibly blessed to have friends in life where we just pick up where we left off, even if that was yesterday or ages ago, and where we can call anytime, day or night, to share some really great news or sad news, just the same.

My wish for anyone reading this is that you have at least one really good friend that you can call at any time for any reason, who is your confidant, your cheerleader, your partner in crime, your voice of reason and when you say, “We’re going on an adventure.“, they don’t say, “Where are we going?” but instead, “What time do we leave?”.  If you don’t have a friend like that – give me a ring. I may not be a voice of reason (Just look at the crazy stuff I get up to.  Besides, I’m more of a big picture thinker than a detail sort of person), but I’ll be your cheerleader and help you turn up the dial on your brilliant light!

Because, seriously – your light is brighter than the sun – and catching a glimpse of that is something the rest of us should be grateful for!

So, why should we practise gratitude?

Gratitude is often explained as mindfulness, appreciation and the awareness of the of blessings that one has in life…. whether it be in the form of tangible objects or intangible things, people in our lives or opportunities and experiences we embark upon. Having an attitude of gratitude regarding just about anything in our lives is an interesting thought.  Gratitude really does change everything – for the better! No matter what we’re grateful for, there’s probably more than a million health benefits of gratitude. And that’s enough for me to want to add more of it into my life – not just today, but every day!

Taking a moment to reflect in this very moment, I feel overwhelmingly grateful. I’ve got a cat sleeping in my lap, a big mug of hot water beside me, some delish home-made almond flour cookies within reach, the sun gleaming in through the windows and a feeling of hope permeating my being.  I just got off the phone with one of my greatest mentors who seems to believe in me enough for the both of us. There’s more projects, ideas and dreams on my Dream Board than I could possibly have time for over the next 45 years. Seriously. I feel lucky to have been invited by a girlfriend to get together tonight with a group of gals (to catch up, laugh and drink wine) and I wake up next to someone who routinely says, “Knock that shit out of the park today, Babe! You’re amazing.” 

It’s true – I am on-my-knees grateful for my entire life and everything in it.  I gotta say, though, that it was not always this way.  I’ve been through so much in the past number of years, from health issues (I had Lyme Disease) to career instability because of the Covid restrictions and measures to relationship struggles.  I used to go to this bench way out on the Greenway and it was my one safe place where I could sit and cry. I still pass by it sometimes and sit and cry – just different sorts of tears.

Life has a way of working out even though when we’re in the middle of it all, it may not seem like that could be possible.  Being grateful, even during the tough times, has been hard for me but when I do find a way to be that way, to live that way, things always get better. And they feel better, too.

A concept that I often share as gifts and use in my own life is the idea of a Gratitude Jar.  You just take a jar, maybe wrap a ribbon around it if you want, grab some sticky notes or colourful paper and a pen.  Then, every day, jot down something you are grateful for.  At the end of the year, or at Christmas, the greatest gift under the tree would be to open the jar and read all the things you wrote down, all the things you were grateful for throughout the year! Truly a remarkable experience if want to give it a try!  Another idea to bring more gratitude into each day that I absolutely love is The 5 Minute Journal. Find it HERE.  It’s not only a game-changer, it’s a life-changer!  Trust me.

So, on this day, and every day – may we all reach out to a friend when we need.  (My contact info is on my website, if you’re needing someone to remind you of your magnificence!) May we find small and big moments in every day to be grateful.  May we laugh. And may we find ourselves helping one another to not only survive and thrive, but to bring to life all that we are dreaming of and hoping for!

Happy World Gratitude Day.

If you’re wanting to find ways to bring more gratitude into your business, organization or life, please reach out! Creating a culture of gratitude can enhance a workplace, improve morale, increase productivity and profits and so much more!  If you’re looking for a little more fulfilment on a daily basis or simply want more out of your life, I promise you, I’ve got a few ideas and tools that will be a fit.

If you’re interested, please check out our upcoming DIVA Retreat in Bucerias, Mexico January 24-29, 2023.  I’d be grateful to share this 5 night inspiration-yoga-philanthropy retreat with you!  www.divaretreats.com Find out more HERE. 

PS: If you’re interested, here’s how World Gratitude Day began:

The idea to celebrate World Gratitude Day came first in 1965 during a Thanksgiving dinner in the meditation room of the United Nations building. Sri Chinmoy, an Indian spiritual leader, and meditation teacher, suggested a day of gratitude that the whole world could celebrate together. With that, each member present decided to hold a gratitude gathering each year in their country on September 21.

Then, in 1977 a group that ran the meditation room requested a resolution that would give recognition for World Gratitude Day. This happened at the New York Headquarters during a special ceremony that honoured Sri Chinmoy for his work. Ever since then, World Gratitude Day has been observed annually worldwide on September 21st.

Crystal Flaman is an international keynote speaker and social entrepreneur, inspiring you to discover your dreams and the difference you can create in the world. Anything is possible. Everything is possible. Believe in your dreams. Do what you love and be fearlessly you. 

If you would like to learn more information about this topic or to have Crystal share this message with your team, in person or on a virtual platform, please contact Crystal.  Thank you.  crystal@inspiringsuccess.ca  phone: 250-215-2903 (cell) or 778-477-0100 (on the rotary dial land-line)

Rave Reviews

“All I can say is WOW! Crystal Flaman you were on fire at the recent Vernon Women in Business Leadership Conference. Your ability to tie the conference theme into your inspirational messaging. You had the entire room captivated with the interactive activities you brought to help solidify your messages. As the MC, it is my job to mind the room and the time slot. Your expert storytelling had us all captivated from beginning to end. Thank you! I would highly recommend you for any event where the group is looking to elevate their team and individual performances.”
Faith Wood, Inspiring Minds Consulting Ltd, Owner
“Crystal was invited to kick-off and set the tone for our Professional Development conference. She delivered an interesting and engaging presentation, and inspired us through her passion and leadership, focusing on creating significance in our successes. Feedback after the session was incredibly positive, appreciating the relevance to both work and home life. Crystal even left us with parting gifts – a crystal prism and rings with encouraging words on them…and I still have them hanging at my desk as a reminder of what she taught us.  I would highly recommend Crystal to speak at your next engagement if you’re looking for a moving, honest and successful woman to ignite passion and inspiration for your team.”
Caren Leinwant, Green Shield Canada, Individual Business Services Manager
“I have known and worked with Crystal for the past 20 years.  She is an amazing person!  Crystal is a great speaker – engaging, humourous, and has the ability to appeal to many different audiences – young and old.   She is always prepared and willing to be flexible depending on the needs of her clients.  She has worked with many start up businesses over the years to provide information and guidance.   I would not hesitate to hire or refer Crystal for any speaking, mentoring or coaching opportunities for businesses in my community.  I know you won’t be disappointed.”
Wendy McCulloch, Community Futures Boundary, General Manager
“Crystal is creative, innovative, passionate, and inspirational. She planned special, memorable, and meaningful activities for our students that helped them to recognize their talents, boost their self-esteem, and prepare them for their transition to middle school. Both staff and students were so impressed by Crystal. The students were excited about the gifts they received and these special tokens will forever remind them of the lessons learned during their time with Crystal.  It truly was an honour to work with Crystal and experience all that she has to teach and offer. Our students are better, more confident people because of the time spent with Crystal.”
Mrs Lara Davies, Teacher, North Glenmore Elementary School
“Her physical and mental strength is only matched by the kindness of her heart. Crystal Flaman is a talented entrepreneur and athlete who has combined her passion for humanity with sport. Every opportunity is used to promote the well-being of her fellow man whether it be at home or abroad. A gifted speaker who can inspire you to tears, or better yet action, uses her magnetic energy to promote positive change. Crystal is hard working, committed and her tenacity is evident in many of her successful projects. Working with Crystal will be one of the best decisions you have ever made. “
Laura Thurnheer, Associate Dean, Okanagan College
“The Diva retreat was the most amazing week of my year. I am new to yoga, so was worried I wouldn’t be able to keep up but Amelie was an amazing instructor and paced the class to include all abilities. It was a beautiful way to start the day! Crystal guided the workshops in her bright and positive way. Each day we meet for a workshop in a safe and supportive environment, with great materials to take away. She created a warm and welcoming place to talk and share experiences. The group of ladies – new to me – became friends I am still in contact with.  We each were able to laugh, share and feel validated.

The location was gorgeous and we had ample free time to explore the village, head to the beach or hang out at the resort. I loved the balance of yoga, workshops and free time.

I would highly recommend the retreat to give yourself time to pause, reflect and refocus.”
Dianne Bondaroff, DIVA Retreat 2018 participant, Artist, Entrepreneur, Change Maker
“I have known Crystal for over 15 years as a colleague and good friend. She is a key component of the instruction team for the Leisure Development Course, a unique three-year professional development program for parks, recreation and community development personnel. Crystal’s presentations are always inspirational, sensitive, insightful and tailored to the needs of the respective students. She is one of the most passionate and enthusiastic individuals I have had the pleasure of working with and would not hesitate in recommending Crystal for whatever endeavor she wishes to undertake.”
Chris Nelson, Coordinator, Leisure Development Course
“I am not sure how to compact my gratitude for what DIVA Retreats really has done for me. My first DIVA Retreat was in 2014. I was seeking exactly what it stands for: Discover my Inner Voice and Adventure through body,  mind, and spirit. I was so blessed to have spent the week with such amazing women and it was the start of a great personal journey since then. My second experience in 2018 was equally amazing and an opportunity to hold the space for someone else’s transformation experience.  At the same time, in the end I was newly inspired again!  I wanted to give back and, instead, got so much more in return. I recommend this retreat for anyone. You are safe and instantly welcomed if you come alone or bring your BFF's. I loved it all! Yoga, laughing, learning, hiking, biking, creating, trying healthy foods, humanitarian contribution.... and most of all making connections with amazing women from all over Canada.  I don’t think there is another retreat like this anywhere that is this affordable.
Louise Sarauer, Administrative Professional, Saskatoon, SK
“I have known Crystal for over 10 years and in that time I have had the pleasure of being a participant in her workshops and presentations as well as being a fellow presenter. Her unwavering enthusiasm for her topics and her sincere, heartfelt messages for her participants, makes her presentations exciting and meaningful to her audiences. She uses her own life challenges and successes as the back-drop for her messages allowing her to use humour to engage and connect with those in the room. Often using a variety of props and techniques, participants are continuously engaged in her presentations. As a result, Crystal is an effective speaker, focused on sharing her passion and beliefs to motivate participants to take action in their own lives, towards their goals and aspirations.”
Deb Comfort, Facilities Supervisor, Dept. of Recreation, Parks and Culture, Red Deer, AB

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