Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Gratitude – A Personal Reflection

“This time of year, a lot of our energy is focused on the holidays, on stores and shopping, ‘don’t you want to get someone this,’ getting that, getting more,” says Briana Simmons.

“As a November baby, I ask people instead to reflect on what they’ve done in the last year, what do you have that you can appreciate.”

Simmons is a registered nurse who started her life coaching business,  ItComesFromWithin8.com, a year ago, after being inspired by her patients.

“In the hospital, especially in the ER and surgery, there’s so much focus on what you don’t have. I see so many people who didn’t see this (medical emergency) coming. They’re thankful to have gotten intervention and to have people for support.”

It’s important to appreciate the journey, says Simmons, “small little nuggets to celebrate along the way. Every win is important.

“As a nurse who sees people at their worst and sometimes their best, I realized that physical ailments can be fixed, but that so many people struggle with prioritizing and taking care of themselves.

“They don’t want to take time off from work to go to the doctor; there is always something or someone more important than themselves.”

“I realized I had my own spirit gifts to help people outside of healthcare, that I can apply to help people when they’re ready. Their mindset shifts.”

“Offering empowerment to them through coaching sounds ‘woo woo,’ but I help clients value and trust themselves. There is a decision-making component too.

Simmons uses Reiki and hypnotherapy to help clients break the cycle, to care for themselves beyond physically: “It’s a personal spiritual health journey as well.”

Nothing compares to you . . .

The holidays can be challenging with a lot of people and personalities gathering, sharing what they’ve been doing and accomplishing. 

It’s easy to fall into the comparison trap, but “Comparison is the thief of joy,” as President Theodore Roosevelt said.

Simmons says that even if you’re “just okay, maybe that’s where you are; a neutral place may be an accomplishment for you. It’s not fair to compare. They’re on their journey and you’re on yours.”