November arrives with cooler temperatures, colorful leaves swirling in the wind, pumpkin spice everything and visions of a Thanksgiving cornucopia. It can be a time of joy, generosity and togetherness. Yet it can also arrive bundled with stress, comparison and a sense of lack — whether financial, emotional or social.

Cultivating abundance thinking and gratitude can transform not only how we experience our lives, but also how we connect with others and ourselves. These two mindsets — abundance and gratitude — work hand in hand to shift our focus from what is missing to what is present, from scarcity to sufficiency, and from isolation to connection.

An abundance mindset is the belief that there is enough happiness and success in the world for everyone. Conversely, a scarcity mindset is the belief that there is never enough for everyone, leading to feelings of anxiety, stress and competition.

A line from Rumi, the 13th-century Persian poet and mystic, captures the essence of an abundance mindset: “Wear gratitude like a cloak and it will feed every corner of your life.” Gratitude multiplies what we have and nourishes us from within.

This mindset can help us to focus on meaningful experiences instead of material objects and heighten our appreciation for the simple beauty of shared time and laughter. When we think abundantly, we recognize that love, kindness and joy are not finite resources, and the more we embrace those values, the more we will create and experience them in our lives.

How to cultivate an abundance mindset

• Focus on and appreciate what you have.
• Surround yourself with positive people who see the glass as half full, not half empty.
• Accept change (since life is change) and seek out the good in whatever new situation you find yourself in.
• In times of interpersonal conflict, try to listen deeply and come up with solutions that are a win-win for both parties.
• Incorporate a gratitude practice into your daily life. Reflect on what you’re grateful for, from meaningful relationships to small joys such as birdsong and the warmth of the sun on your face.
• Be generous with others and share your time, resources and kindness. This generosity has a way of creating a sense of community that will enrich your life.

Why choose gratitude?

Gratitude helps us recognize the richness already surrounding us. When we pause to notice the feeling of warmth from a home-cooked meal, the glow of lights in the evening, or a simple gesture of kindness, we feel how much there is to be thankful for. Scientific research has shown that gratitude improves mental health, increases happiness and strengthens relationships.

Practicing gratitude can take many forms: keeping a daily journal, expressing appreciation to loved ones or volunteering time to help others. These acts nurture a sense of fulfillment and also foster community. When we give thanks, we become more attuned to others’ needs and more willing to share what we have — whether that’s time, attention or compassion.

Ultimately, abundance thinking and gratitude can transform our lives. They invite us to slow down, see beauty in simplicity and remember that joy is not something we acquire, but something we cultivate.