Giving thanks...to my kids' mess
Gratitude from unexpected places.
As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s natural to reflect on gratitude—cherishing the people we love, favorite memories, and anything that brings positive emotions and meaning to our lives. But gratitude can also show up in unexpected ways.
In decluttering, letting go may bring feelings of guilt, fear, and confusion. However, thoughtfully letting go of belongings that no longer suit us gives us the chance to honor the lessons those items brought. Even when it feels difficult, we can appreciate freeing the objects that reflect a chapter we’ve moved beyond, or they play a role in helping us notice our own growth—how our needs and tastes have evolved.
In parenting, gratitude can be found in the solutions that come out of uncomfortable moments.These feelings signal us to look closer, and be curious about the potential opportunity.
For example, feeling overwhelmed by our children’s messes may be something parents want to avoid, but the overwhelm might be just the motivation we need to finally accept that we own more than we can physically manage. Or when frustration takes over when kids don’t clean up when they said they would. They might be the signals for parents to reevaluate their children’s skill set, time management, or own expectations. Those discomfort tells us to pause and regulate before approaching our children to problem-solve as a team, and open a path to deeper connections by modeling empathy and patience.
Gratitude isn’t only for the sunshine moments. Sometimes, it rises from moving through the difficult parts and recognizing the growth from overcoming obstacles.
For me, this year’s challenge was to finish writing the Dooley Method. There were so many moments of self-doubt, editing out words and phrasings that felt too good to let go. But in the end, the delete button was my most important tool, so I can offer my readers the lessons in the most clear and useful way.
What’s one challenge or moment recently that made you want to push it away but later feel thankful for? I’d love to hear how gratitude shows up for you this season.
In case you missed it…
Check out the Before & After of my 11-year-old client’s bedroom decluttering.
Can’t decide what to keep or toss? Read tips on asking the right questions.