Good Morning and Happy Thanksgiving!

I hope you're all gearing up for one of my favorite holidays: Thanksgiving—a day not just for feasting but for reflecting.

If I could offer you one piece of advice from a "seasoned veteran", it’s this: take some time to pause and think about the people who’ve helped shape your life this past year—and even throughout your journey. Your parents, teachers, friends, children, patients, colleagues… they’ve all played a part in who you are today. Have you taken a moment to truly thank them?

In my 40+ years of practice and personal growth, I've read hundreds of self-development books. There’s one universal truth they all share: the first step toward meaningful advancement in life is developing the habit of gratitude. Gratitude is simple, free, and incredibly powerful. It doesn’t take more than a moment to express, yet it can shift your mindset entirely.

So, how can you embrace gratitude in a tangible way? Start small. Think about the everyday blessings we often take for granted: your parents’ love, your children’s laughter, your health, your career, your mentors and friends. Have you thanked your maker for the gift of sight? For the ability to hear, to touch lives, to share a smile?

I’ll admit, gratitude wasn’t always easy for me. Growing up, I was taught to keep my emotions in check, to "tough it out." But over the years, as I worked at it—like a muscle being strengthened—gratitude became much easier...in fact almost second nature. Now, it also enriches my life in ways I never imagined.

Here’s my challenge to you: starting today, make it a habit to thank at least three people every day for something they’ve done or said. And when you do, mean it. Notice how it makes them feel—and how it makes you feel.

Why not brighten someone’s day with a heartfelt word? Why not make someone feel valued and appreciated? Why not lend a hand to someone less fortunate than you? Why not make gratitude a part of who you are?

As a healthcare professional, you already have an extraordinary gift: the ability to touch and transform countless lives every single day. Imagine what could happen if you paired that ability with a consistent practice of gratitude. The rewards—both personal and professional—are boundless.

Now, take a moment to reflect. Click here to watch this short video and think about how you can serve more and make an even bigger impact.

Let’s make Thanksgiving not just a holiday, but a daily practice.

Make it a beautiful Thanksgiving every day,

Dr. Rick