Gratitude and Systems

The Power of Gratitude in a Season That Pulls Us Into Chaos

When the holidays arrive, culture pulls us into hurry, pressure, and comparison. What should feel joyful starts to feel heavy. But over the years—as a mom, nurse, wife, and coach—I’ve learned that gratitude is more than a warm feeling. It’s a grounding force that brings you back to God, back to your values, and back to what truly matters.

Gratitude creates clarity. And with clarity, you can stay aligned even when everything around you feels chaotic.

Here’s the simple system I return to every holiday season:

1. Know and Honor Your Values

Values help you protect what matters most.

Before the season gets busy, ask yourself:

What do I want this season to feel like? What matters most to me?

When values lead, stress quiets.

2. Set Your Goals and Objectives

Your values shape your goals; your goals shape what actually needs to get done.

Choose a few priorities—connection, peace, healthy rhythms, or spiritual grounding—and let your objectives support those, not culture’s expectations.

3. Use the Execution Filter: Do It, Decide & Schedule It, Delegate It, or Delete It

Use this to stop overwhelm before it starts:

✔️ Do It

If it aligns with your values and goals, take action.

✔️ Decide & Schedule It

If it matters, choose when you’ll do it and put it on the calendar.

This keeps your mind clear and intentional.

✔️ Delegate It

You don’t have to carry everything yourself.

✔️ Delete It

If it drains you or doesn’t align with your values, let it go without guilt.

Gratitude anchors your heart.

Values anchor your decisions.

A system anchors your peace.

This season, choose intention over chaos—and let gratitude lead the way.