Gratitude Is Not Exclusive to God — Have Gratitude for Yourself

Gratitude is often taught as something we should give to God, the universe, your ancestors, or a higher power—and rightfully so. But what’s rarely talked about is the importance of having gratitude for yourself.

Many people view God as something entirely separate from themselves. So when we say, “Be grateful to God,” it can unintentionally leave you—the one doing the hard work—out of the equation. But ask yourself: If you believe you are separate from God, where did you come from? If you believe you're made in divine image or created with purpose, then doesn’t it follow that you carry a piece of that divinity within you?

This is why self-gratitude matters.

You are the one who wakes up every day and keeps going, even when life is heavy. You are the one who’s fought through dark moments, stood up when it was easier to fall, and kept showing up for yourself. That’s not just something to overlook—it’s something to honor.

Gratitude for yourself doesn’t mean abandoning your faith or ego-tripping. It means recognizing your effort, your strength, your growth. It means saying, “I’m proud of me,” without guilt.

When you start thanking yourself, you also begin healing the parts of you that felt unseen or unworthy. You build trust with yourself. You become your own safe space.

So yes—have gratitude for God, the universe, or whatever you believe in. But don’t forget to thank the person who’s carried you through every storm: you.

You deserve your own appreciation.