How to Embrace the Small Things

Many people, overcome by the challenges of day-to-day life, fail to appropriately appreciate the fine things in life. Instead of allowing yourself to move through life too bogged down with worry and busy with tasks to truly appreciate the beauty inherent in some of the smaller things, take time to recognize, embrace and celebrate these simple but meaningful things.

Instructions

• 1

  Slow down. If you're rushing through life, you likely won't have time to spot or embrace the small things. Although it can be difficult to eke out time in a packed schedule, doing so is requisite if you want to appreciate all life has to offer. Instead of filling your schedule to maximum capacity, let some things go and give yourself more time to appreciate life each day.

• 2

  Take stock of the small things in your life. Sit down with a sheet of paper and list small things that make you happy. Include anything that brings a smile to your face. You might include a child's laugh, a baby's tiny toes or the smell of chocolate chip cookies baking. After creating your list, post it in a prominent location. After creating the list and reviewing it from time to time, you may be more likely to remember to take time out to appreciate these things.

• 3

  Engage in regular reflection. It's often easy to not notice the small things if you don't actively think about them. By engaging in reflection, you give yourself the opportunity to analyze your life instead of just moving through it. There is no one right way to reflect, but many find keeping a journal in which they write about things they notice during their day-to-day life as an effective way to reflect upon their lives.

• 4

  Share your observations with others. Instead of making your attempt to appreciate the small things in life a solo endeavor, get others involved. For example, if you notice a beautiful flower, instead of just taking in its beauty by yourself, mention it to a friend or family member, encouraging him to take a look as well. In doing so, you can make your newfound appreciation for the small things contagious.