
Gratitude Over Biterness - Nat Galloway
Gratitude Over Bitterness
There was a time in my life when bitterness ruled my mindset.
Bitter about politics.
Bitter about the state of the world.
Bitter about not making enough money.
Bitter about how we withdrew from Afghanistan.
Bitter about people who walked away or let me down.
And if I’m honest, it felt justified. I carried that bitterness like armour. I thought it protected me. But it didn’t. It weighed me down, keeping me focused on what I didn’t have instead of what I did.
Eventually, I hit a point where I realized I had two options: keep feeding the bitterness, or choose something different.
The Shift
I chose gratitude.
Not in a blind, fluffy, “everything happens for a reason” kind of way. But in a grounded, intentional way. I started asking what each situation had taught me—even the worst ones. Especially the worst ones.
With every negative came a chance to grow. That positive might not be a reward or a win. Sometimes it was just a hard truth that helped shape who I became. But over time, those lessons added up. And they changed me.
The people who hurt me? They may not have learned a thing.
But I did. And that’s what matters.
Owning My Own Mistakes
It’s not just what others did. I’ve made my share of mistakes.
Said the wrong things.
Made bad calls.
Hurt people I cared about.
But instead of sitting in shame or pretending it didn’t happen, I’ve learned to face it. Own it. Learn from it.
Every wrong turn was a chance to grow. A moment to reflect. An opportunity to become better.
I don’t run from my mistakes now—I build on them.
Perspective Is Power
One thing I believe everyone should experience—whether through service, hardship, or travel—is perspective. I’ve been to countries where people have nothing—no running water. No safety. No future to plan for.
And yet, they’re some of the most grateful people I’ve ever seen.
They don’t have the comfort of feeling sorry for themselves. Gratitude isn’t optional—it’s how they survive. They wake up, thank God for what they do have, and work hard to make the most of it.
We forget how lucky we are.
Sure, things aren’t perfect. But we have homes. Clean water. Food. Freedom. The ability to build something for ourselves. That’s not nothing.
Gratitude brings clarity. Bitterness brings tunnel vision.
How to Choose Gratitude Over Bitterness
Gratitude isn’t passive—it’s something you practice. Daily. Especially when it’s hard.
Here’s how to start:
✅ Daily Gratitude Questions
Use this checklist to shift your mindset:
What did I experience today that I’m thankful for?
Who do I appreciate, even if they’re not perfect?
What hardship taught me a valuable lesson?
What do I have now that I once wished for?
What comfort do I enjoy that others don’t have?
Where in my life am I better than I was a year ago?
✍️ 2-Minute Gratitude Practice
At the end of each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. No overthinking. Just write what comes to mind.
Mine today:
I’m grateful I have a job I love that helps people.
I’m grateful for lessons from past relationships that now make me a better partner.
I’m grateful for my son, my home, and even something as simple as a kitchen sink.
Sounds basic—but basic is a blessing.
🧠 When Bitterness Creeps In
Next time you feel bitter or resentful, do this:
Pause.
Name what you’re feeling.
Ask: What’s one thing I can take away from this?
Then choose one thing—anything—you’re grateful for in that moment.
Even if all you can say is, “I’m grateful I caught this feeling before it took over.” That’s a win.
Choosing gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring pain. It means refusing to be defined by it.
Bitterness chains you to the past. Gratitude gives you strength in the present.
And it’s not just the good things I’m grateful for. I’m grateful for the hard stuff too.
Because the truth is:
The negatives—whether caused by others or by myself—are what made me who I am today.
And for that, I’m thankful.
Your Challenge This Week
Write down three things you’re grateful for every day.
Pick one past mistake or hardship and ask: What did it teach me?
Share one of those things with someone you trust—or just say it out loud.
Gratitude over bitterness. Growth over shame.
Gratitude is a skill you can train, just like strength or endurance. If you want to learn how to use it to fuel your growth, book a call at www.masterathletic.com. You’ll connect with me or one of our coaches and start building a plan for a stronger, more focused you.
Nat Galloway
Coach, Master Athletic Performance