Gratitude Quick Practice: Write an Acknowledgements List

One of the most powerful exercises in my creative life was writing the acknowledgements section of my first book, Flow State Runner. That single chapter took as much effort as any other — not because it was difficult, but because it was meaningful.

Some names came to mind instantly. Others surfaced only after deep reflection — moments where I paused and thought, “How could I have almost forgotten them? That person showed up when I needed it most.”

That experience planted the seed for this gratitude practice.

Acknowledgements List Exercise

Take a moment and ask:

If you were writing a personal acknowledgements section for this past year, who would you include?

You can break it down like this:

• Direct Contributors: Those who offered support directly — time, talent, a gift, a loan, a job lead
• Motivators, Muses & Supporters: Those who cheered you on, reminded you to rest, encouraged your goals
• Teachers & Mentors: People who taught you something new — about the world or yourself
• Strangers & New Friends: Someone who made a small but timely gesture that helped you in a big way

Think of the people who showed up at just the right moment. Who challenged you. Believed in you. Made a connection. Offered a word, a hand, or even just a quiet presence when you needed it most.

You may also notice names of people you’ve never met — authors, musicians, creators — whose work shifted your thinking or helped you hold on during a tough stretch.

That’s the beauty of reflection: it reminds us we’re not doing this alone.

The Power of Small Gestures

This practice has helped me recognize how powerful even the smallest gesture can be — an encouraging word, a high five, a “you’ve got this” at the right time.

We don’t always know the impact we make on others. But we can pause to honor the impact others have made on us.

“You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards.”
— Steve Jobs

Nearly a decade later, I still return to those four pages of acknowledgements.

Whenever I feel discouraged or alone in my business pursuits, I flip back and remember what a great team I had — and still have. We all do. More support surrounds us than we realize, especially when we take a moment to see it.

Take a Moment to Say Thanks

Once you’ve drafted your list, send a few quick thank-you messages.

They don’t have to be perfect. In fact, the imperfect message sent today is far better than the beautifully crafted message never sent.

You might just make someone’s day — or their year.

To everyone who has supported me along the way — in ways large and small — thank you. You’ve helped shape my life, and I’m grateful beyond words.

If you’re setting new goals right now, this practice pairs well with momentum. Start with gratitude. Then take bold, clear steps forward.

— Jeff