Notice the Small Things That Make You Happy

by Cheryl Rainfield, 2003

Have you smelled a flower lately? I mean really smelled one. Stood there and took in the scent as it courses through your body, looked at its delicate petals, its colour and shape, and felt its beauty and the calmness. Have you noticed the things around you—the things that you find beautiful, comforting, or reassuring? Really noticed them, not just noticed them on the edge of your consciousness. Sometimes, in our rush to get things done, we forget to notice the things around us that make us feel good. Those things blur in the background of all the other things in our lives—the more pressing, irritating things. But it's things that give us beauty, comfort, and joy that can help rejuvenate us, can give us more energy and happiness. And it's so easy to forget that.

For instance, I have a painting in my study of a young child swimming through the ocean. It seems like the child is flying, and when I look at it, it makes me smile. But I haven't looked at that painting—really looked at it, taken in the whole picture and let it buoy up my spirits—for months. I've been too busy getting work done. But I took a few minutes today to look at it—and it worked for me the same as it always does. It made me feel good. Just a tiny thing—something that takes so little effort, but brings so much reward.

What little things do that for you in your life? Feeling the warm sun on your skin? Seeing fluffy clouds in the sky? Hearing your favorite song? Being hugged by your best friend? Eating an ice cream cone? Splashing through the water? Blowing bubbles? Listening to the sound of rain on a roof? Remember to take time out and notice the things that make you feel good. It can make a huge difference in how you feel.

©Cheryl Rainfield, 2003

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