Thanksgiving
A Gentle Thanksgiving Reminder
(For the Overachievers, the Overwhelmed, and the Opt-Out Crowd)
This is your official permission slip for Thanksgiving:
You can go big.
You can go quiet.
You can go to dinner.
You can cancel dinner.
You can cook for twelve.
You can order Chinese and call it a cultural choice.
All are valid. All are patriotic. All are deeply American.
If you love traditions — lean into them.
If traditions make you tired — take a nap.
If family fills your heart — stay longer.
If family fills your cortisol levels — leave early or don’t go at all.
Whatever you do, do it on purpose — not out of guilt, pressure, or Aunt Sheila’s passive-aggressive texts.
Feel Your Feelings. All of Them.
Grateful?
Wonderful.
Sad?
Also allowed.
Lonely?
Welcome to the club.
Overstimulated by small children, loud uncles, and too many side dishes?
Completely normal.
There is no emotional dress code for this holiday.
If joy shows up, grab it.
If grief shows up, acknowledge it.
If irritation shows up, pour another drink (or some tea, if that’s your speed).
You don’t owe anyone a performance.
Final Thought
Gratitude doesn’t have to look like a Pinterest table.
It can look like:
• A quiet morning
• A walk outside
• A good book
• A plate of food you didn’t cook
• Or simply choosing rest
However you spend it — big, small, social, solo — I hope it’s gentle on your spirit.
That’s enough.
Happy Thanksgiving, exactly as you choose it. 🦃❤️
Julie Bolejack, MBA
