Time is everything. It feels as though time gradually gets faster as we age, not slowing down, with no way of going back to our favorite memories or stretching out the moments that matter most. The world seems to have a way of making us feel as if time is moving too fast. If you’re human, this brings a great deal of anxiety and stress to every day life. For as long as I can remember, it was always stressed in school and at home that I need to plan for the future, for “someday,” so I did just that. I focused on perfecting every aspect of life that I could to do well in school to ultimately go to a good college. While it’s important to plan for the future, it’s just as important to be thankful for what is here, what is now, where we are now, and to be thankful for what is yet to come.
While hitting a pause button is not an option, there’s an exercise I have created and added to my everyday routine that has helped me relax. At times where the outside noise is too much and the world won’t stop spinning, this has helped…and I hope it can do the same for you. All you need is as little as two minutes.
Think of three things you are thankful for. Just three. They can be anything, from the roof you have over your head to the fuzzy socks you are wearing on your feet. You can either write them down, or simply close your eyes and envision the short list on a chalkboard in front of you. Whatever your preference, just try to really narrow your focus in on those three things. Once you have those three things laid out in front of you, take a few moments and thank God for bringing those things into your life. Tell him how appreciative you are to have them, and why you are grateful for them. What special components do they have that make you so happy? What value do they bring to your life?
Like I said, these don’t need to be big things…it’s actually better if they are not. Taking a few minutes each day to focus on three things you are thankful for and identifying the important role they have in your life can help bring your mind to that standstill place. It helps me recognize how the small things in life are the big things. Once you start taking a couple of minutes each day to be thankful for the small things that make you smile, you will find yourself being more appreciative of their presence throughout the day. The next time you go on a coffee run, take a moment to appreciate the welcoming rush of fresh air that hits your face when you leave your house. Be thankful God gave you the ability to see the sunrise peeking through the leaves, and the ability to smell pumpkin spice everything. It’s okay if they’re “basic” things. If they make you smile, then make sure you capitalize on that. Capitalize on the little things that make you happy, and work to incorporate them more into your everyday life.
Find the little things in your life that make you smile, and make those things the big things. In the long run, you will be much happier, I promise.
