All the Small Things

I attended a book lecture by an author I enjoy this past weekend at our local library.  It was such a wondefully unexpected event and I signed up immediately when a book club friend let me know about it.  Coincidentally, I had just re-read one of his books this summer so it was all fresh in my mind.  As I sat through the lecture, thoroughly enjoying listening to him tell stories in his wonderful accent, I realized I had a smile on my face the entire time.  An hour-long lecture, a book signing, and a photo with Sir Alexander McCall Smith was not a huge event, but I recognize that it was one of the bigger small things in my life that leads me to being an overall happy person.

It got me thinking about the small things that make me happy, both in the moment, but also throughout my daily life.  I know that allowing myself to notice these small things and to enjoy them is so important to overall happiness.

Some of my small things:

·         The sun in my face during a walk

·         That first sip of hot coffee in the morning

·         Fierce hugs from my boys

·         Exchanging I love yous with my girlfriends

·         Finishing a tough workout and wiping off the sweat with my towel

·         Laughing with a good friend

·         An unexpected text or meme from one of my children

·         A purring cat snuggled up on my lap making biscuits

·         A savored small piece of chocolate

·         Settling down to read a book I am enjoying with a cup of tea and a blanket

·         The smell and feel of a crisp, fall day

·         When a favorite song comes on the radio and singing out loud

·         Spending time in the woods

Just making this list makes me smile.  I’m sure you have a list of your own.   Try making one and see how you feel just coming up with your small things.

It’s a great practice to add to your daily routine.  Notice those small things.  Think about those small things. Look around you to see the colors of the leaves or the flowers still in bloom.  Let yourself smile if it feels good, maybe even talk to yourself or sing a song.  Call it mindfulness, call it slowing time, call it whatever you want.

Life is hard enough every day.  But maybe noticing these small mood boosters can lead to more overall contentment and happiness.

Give it a try.