Life can be hectic and overwhelming at times. It seems like we are constantly running from one thing to the next, and we never have a moment to ourselves. This can lead to stress and anxiety, which is bad for our health. One way to combat this is by learning how to enjoy the little things in life.
In this article, we will discuss 8 ways to truly enjoy the little things in life. By following these tips, you will be able to live more in the present and appreciate all the amazing moments that life has to offer!
#1 – Stop Thinking of It As a Cliché
First, stop thinking of enjoying the little things in life as a cliché. It is easy to dismiss something as being clichéd, but that doesn’t make it any less true.
If you find yourself thinking that enjoying the little things is cliché, remind yourself that it is still valuable advice.
Taking time to appreciate the pleasures life brings, however small, can promote satisfaction even when things don’t turn out how you hoped.
Perhaps you feel a little sad about being single, especially as friends begin moving in with their partners, announcing weddings, or having children.
#2 – Wake Up 15 Minutes Earlier
On weekday mornings, I used to roll out of bed just in time to get ready for work. I’d throw on some clothes, do a quick hair and makeup routine, grab breakfast on the go, and head out the door.
I realized that if I woke up just 15 minutes earlier, I could have a leisurely cup of coffee and actually sit down to enjoy breakfast.
Now, I wake up feeling refreshed and ready to start my day instead of rushing out the door stressed and frazzled.
Instead of zeroing in on negatives, such as your dingy apartment complex or the trash in your neighbor’s yard, notice the positive things.
It can be anything from the delicate flowers blooming on a tree to the way the sun hits the buildings in just the right way.
Take a few deep breaths and enjoy the moment, even if it’s just for a few minutes. You may find that your day goes more smoothly and you feel more relaxed when you take a moment to appreciate the little things.
#3 – Take a Long Walk
There’s something about being outdoors and surrounded by nature that just has a way of calming the soul.
Whether you live in the city or the country, make it a point to go for a long walk at least once a week.
Admire the beauty that surrounds you and breathe in the fresh air. If you have a dog, this is also a great way to bond with your furry friend.
If you have access to a big, natural space like a park or wildlife preserve, great. But even if you live in a more urban area, there are still plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.
Look for a quiet neighborhood street or an alleyway lined with trees. Anywhere that you can clear your head and take in the beauty of nature will do the trick.
#4 – Try Your Hand at Gardening
Gardening is a great way to get in touch with the natural world. There is something truly magical about growing your own food.
Even if you don’t have a lot of space, you can still grow herbs or flowers in pots on your balcony or windowsill.
Getting your hands dirty and watching things grow is a great way to relax and de-stress.
Watering your seedling and watching it grow into a flower- or fruit-bearing plant can feel immensely rewarding.
If your plant does produce something edible, you can savor your achievement again when eating something you grew yourself.
#5 – Call Someone You Care About
We all get so busy with work and life in general that we can forget to stay in touch with the people who matter most to us.
Picking up the phone or sending a quick text message can let someone know you’re thinking about them and that you care.
It only takes a few minutes out of your day, but it can mean the world to someone else.
Try setting aside 10 or 15 minutes in your day to call a friend or family member. Hearing them laugh or tell an animated story can bring you joy in a way that a text message, devoid of the tone of voice, can’t quite compare to.
And if you really want to go the extra mile, send a handwritten letter instead.
It sounds old-fashioned, but there’s something truly special about getting a piece of mail that isn’t a bill or an advertisement.
Plus, it gives you an excuse to use pretty stationery and put your best handwriting on display!
#6 – Bake Something Delicious
Baking is one of those activities that is so satisfying, it’s hard to believe it isn’t therapeutic.
The science behind it backs this up too – the act of measuring out ingredients, following a recipe, and watching the finished product come together can help to lower stress levels.
Not to mention, you get to eat something delicious at the end!
Whether you’re whipping up a batch of cookies or a cake for someone’s birthday, baking is a great way to show you care.
Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with friends or family.
What’s not to love?
#7 – Get Lost in a Book
There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good book.
It can transport you to another world, help you escape your own reality for a little while, and provide an opportunity for some much-needed relaxation.
Reading can excite and inspire. It can expose you to different perspectives and distract you from worries.
What’s more, reading an account of someone else’s distress can renew appreciation of your own life.
If you’re looking for a way to truly enjoy the little things in life, make sure to set aside some time each day to curl up with a good book.
You won’t regret it!
#8 – Go Stargazing
Stargazing is a great way to connect with the universe and appreciate the world around you.
It can be a relaxing activity, and it’s also a great opportunity to learn more about astronomy.
If you live in a city, stargazing might seem like an impossible task. But there are ways to make it work.
You can find a spot outside of the city limits, or you can visit an astronomy center.
Either way, stargazing is a great way to truly enjoy the little things in life.
Conclusion
The next time you’re feeling down, take a few minutes to do something that brings you joy. Even if it’s something as simple as taking a walk in your neighborhood or reading your favorite book, these small moments can help improve your mood and outlook on life. What are some of your favorite ways to enjoy the little things?
What do you think?
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