Good morning,

It’s easy to get caught in the cycle of what’s next: the next meeting, next milestone, next meal. But one practice can radically reframe everything: thankfulness.

Not performative gratitude. Not just the “thank you” you say in a rush at Tim Hortons. I’m talking about pausing to really notice, to let appreciation settle deep in your chest and then express it.

In a city like Toronto, where hustle is the default and busy is the badge, thankfulness can feel countercultural. But when you make it a daily habit, it changes everything.

Here are three simple ways you can lean into gratitude this week:

1. Name It Daily

Set a reminder on your phone for 9 p.m. every night. When it goes off, write down three things you’re thankful for from that day. Big or small. The warmth of your coffee. A friend's text. Getting through a tough meeting. Gratitude trains your mind to look for the good and see more of it.

2. Say It Out Loud

Think of one person you haven’t thanked recently - a coworker, neighbour, family member - and tell them. In person or by text. Tell them why you’re grateful. Your words might lift their entire week. Gratitude spoken is often gratitude multiplied.

👉 Try this today: "Hey, I just wanted to say thank you for _____. It meant a lot."

3. Make Work Worship

Whether you’re leading a team, serving at the front desk, taking post-secondary studies, or building a new organization... your work can reflect gratitude. Approach your tasks with a thankful heart, not just for what you do but for the opportunity to do it. Gratitude turns obligation into purpose.

🎧 Recommended read and listen: "10 Easy Ways to Show Employee Appreciation" by EntreLeadership/Ramsey Solutions

If you try any of the above this week, I’d love to hear how it goes. Just reply to this email; I read every message.

May the rest of your week be full of success and... gratitude.

All the best,
Alex Rășcanu

P.S. I’ve got a couple of #ExperienceTO historical tours (Swansea and High Park) and a Jane Walk (Bloor West Village) coming up. If you’re looking to get offline and reconnect with the city - and catch up - it’d be awesome to see you there.