• It is important to focus on the non-material world where we share our thanks with words of affirmation, kind deeds, and prayers of thanksgiving.
• Decide whether this item will bring me or my family lasting joy: Will it end up in the trash can within a week?
• Instead, reward with experiences, be purposeful on how you express your love for others, and avoid the trap that materialism leads to happiness.

A major obstacle to being grateful or growing in this virtue is refusing to forgive .

• When we refuse to forgive it leads us to grow in hard-heartedness.
• Consider forgiving those who have hurt you or robbed you of your joy.
• Seek to mend that relationship.
• When we seek out to strengthen our relationships with others, we grow closer to Christ. In the meantime, we grow in gratitude.

Worry and anxiety can also lead us away from being grateful.

There is a direct link between screen time and anxiety, especially with our teens. St. Paul says:

Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

If we are anxious and stressed out, let us take a breather and unplug. Detach and spend some time in nature or go to Eucharistic Adoration for some restful quiet before Jesus.