Sometimes we get so involved in trying to solve life’s problems that we forget to experience joy in the little things. The picture above is from a rose bush that originally came from my grandma. It has to be at least 80 years old and is likely much older. I love seeing these roses bloom every year, remembering how my grandma used to pin them in my hair and put them on my birthday cake. I felt so special.
I’ve been missing my dad the past few days and these roses are a reminder of how family lines continue and that we can enjoy the little things, like the scent of these flowers. I get so caught up in trying to figure things out and fix problems that I forget the old adage – stop and smell the roses.
What moments are you missing because your focus is on problems? Yes, we need to figure things out, build our businesses, maintain friendships, etc. However, we also need to slow down and notice the small joys – the smile on the face of a stranger, the flowers creating a beautiful space, the joy of kids running through the sprinklers, a deep conversation with your best friend – they all count!
When you notice the little things and let yourself enjoy them, it helps fuel you to take on the hard stuff in life. It is difficult to get up the energy to be your best when your inner “tank” is empty. I took a class almost 30 years ago and the instructor had us create DSFY days – Do Something For Yourself. Maybe you don’t have time to take an entire day, but what DSFY moments could you intentionally take? Maybe it’s sitting and watching the birds at the feeder or taking a walk in the middle of a work day or writing a real letter to the friend you haven’t seen in years. It doesn’t have to cost much or anything at all. It’s all about taking the time to enjoy life’s little pleasures, whatever that is for you.
As the flight attendants say, put your mask on first before you assist someone else. Taking time to fuel your internal tank by letting yourself enjoy the little things is like putting on your own oxygen mask. Share your DSFY moments with us below. Maybe you’ll inspire someone to let themselves also take time to do what brings them joy.
Every morning I listen to a guy from TN read the Bible from an app on my phone……..I watch the birds come to my bird feeder sitting on the balcony of my second floor apartment and I love FaceTiming with my granddaughter each day. I feel like I am copying things that you said in your blog, but I also love to write “snail mail” notes to people just to say “I am thinking about you” or call someone just because I want to not because I need to. I make sure to get outside when the weather permits. I need lots of light and so even when I “should” be doing something else, I bike or walk just to be outside. I realize I am at a stage in life where I can do these things…….I am thankful every day. I just read a book called “1000 Gifts” and it was about being grateful and journaling. It’s a good discipline.
Those “shoulds” can run our lives. So happy that you are taking time to do the things that bring you joy.