In a time of highly degreed individuals, stuck in low paying jobs and paying off high interest student loan debt, we need a little something to keep us going. With that, I say, count your blessings—literally.

When I moved to Atlanta two years ago, I took a risk because I felt it was time to do so. I didn’t have a job and had limited family to support me. I was able to live on unemployment, savings, and credit cards for a bit of time before things got serious. Through networking, I was able to get a temporary position with a popular beverage company in Georgia. If you’ve ever worked as a contractor, you know that in positions like these, you make very little money and get no benefits. So there I was working as a temp and barely making it financially. I remember having to piece together checks to make rent and do the same for my car note among other debts. There was a point where I exhausted my complete savings and incurred so much debt. I began to stress out to the point of sleeplessness because I felt trapped in a financial hell.

One morning, I woke up and decided I was tired of pitying myself. It occurred to me that there was someone in the world that would trade with me in a heartbeat and I should count my blessings. In that moment, I began a routine of mentally counting everything I was grateful for in my life.

Over time, I began writing these things on post-it notes and plastering them all over my room and bathroom mirror. They went from broad to very concise. Anything I could I think of became noted immediately.

1. I’m Breathing

2. I’m in Good Health

3. A place to sleep

4. Food to Eat

5. Clothes to wear

6. Toiletries

7. Hot and Cold Water

8. Electricity

9. Reliable Transportation

10. Gas in my car

11. A full set of teeth to smile

12. Working Limbs

13. Meaningful Friendships

14. Music

You get the idea now.

I did this almost every day when I was starting to stress about bills and money. When you really count your blessings, you will begin to feel better about life and yourself.

Hardships happen—ok, that doesn’t soften the blow or impact -- but your mindset can definitely bring a little more joy to your world.

Mentality is Key.