Shift-Strong Gratitude: Finding Balance When You Work Thanksgiving

Let’s be real — not everyone gets to sit around the table this Thanksgiving. If you’re clocking in while everyone else is carving turkey, you’re not alone. Nurses, techs, EMTs, and every shift-strong soul keeping the world turning — this one’s for you.

1. GRATITUDE WITHOUT THE FLUFF

You don’t have to pretend to love working the holiday. Gratitude isn’t toxic positivity — it’s perspective. Be thankful for your strength, your paycheck, your patients’ safety, and your ability to show up when it counts.

You’re the reason someone’s family member makes it home.

2. CREATE MINI MOMENTS OF JOY

Pack a comfort kit for your shift — your favorite coffee, protein bar, cozy hoodie, or earbuds for a post-shift playlist. A few small comforts can shift the entire vibe.

3. PLAN YOUR OWN CELEBRATION

Your Thanksgiving doesn’t have to fit the calendar. Plan your own version — even if it’s a solo dinner and Netflix the next day. You deserve rest, connection, and time to decompress.

You’re not missing out — you’re rescheduling joy.

4. REFLECT BEFORE YOU RESET

Before your next shift, write down three things that went right — even small ones. It’s how you re-center between chaos and calm.