How To Instantly Upgrade Your Life: Relish The Small Things (Part I)

I’m new to the K-drama world… So when my sister insisted I watch this new Korean show on Netflix, I admit I was not interested at all. Seeing how excited she was I agreed to only watch the first two episodes. Well, let’s just say I ended up staying up all night binge watching the entire season. As sleep deprived as I was the next day, I will gladly do it all over again. Surprisingly watching the show gave me great pleasure.

I got inspired by my first K-drama experience to write this post on the simple pleasures of life and how important they are, even though the majority of us take them for granted. In my continued efforts to create a beautiful life for myself I find that many people (myself included), have been missing out on a lot of things that make life worthwhile, simply because we have been taught mainly to strive to accomplish big things. As a result we overlook the small things that play a vital role in our everyday life. 

As important as it is to fiercely pursue our dreams and focus on great accomplishments, it is equally as important to pay attention to the small things and learn to appreciate them. After all, the fabric of our life is made up of small things, like enjoying a cup of tea in the morning, going for a walk alone, watching the sun set, or spending time with family… These are the things that bring us joy, help us create balance and keep us whole. Just like a piece of fabric has many interwoven threads, our very own existence is also made of a myriad of small but valuable things or moments that sustain us. Without them we would feel alone, empty and perhaps even alienated.  

One thing I am sure we can all agree on: there isn’t one single moment—big or small—that makes life worthwhile. There is however a collection of moments that comprises the vast majority of our existence and enhances the value of our life. When we learn to appreciate those moments, we can then use them to pave the way towards bigger accomplishments and greater joy. Conversely, when we fail to acknowledge them, there’s a great possibility we can end up losing sight of the things that matter most, like how privileged we are to have a roof over our head or a warm bed to sleep in. 

I’m not ignoring nor reducing the fact that life can be very complex and darn right tough at times. Call me naive but I believe life can also be simple and very pleasant if we take time to enjoy the things that never fail to remind us that it doesn’t always have to be stressful and/or exhausting. We can instantly upgrade our life by learning to be present and finding delight in the simple things… like watching a funny movie, hugging a child, taking a warm bath, or cuddling in bed with someone we love. So while we continue to celebrate the big milestones in life, let’s not forget to celebrate the small things too because they are what keeps us centered and are essential to our lasting happiness.

When was the last time you indulged in something small that gives you great pleasure and brings you comfort and joy? Comment below and let us know.

Carli 🇭🇹

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3 Responses

  1. Carli, thank you for sharing. I agree with you 100%, you are correct! We were taught to achieve the big things, education, graduation, get a good job, get married, have children, get a promotion. These are our parents achievements for us. These are the moments they celebrate us. Our minds are set on the Learned behaviors. We need to reprogram ourselves to enjoy life. Life is not that hard if we learn LIVE. I just now in my early 40, starting to celebrate me for the small things in my life. Learning how to breath, that releases stress and anxiety. As you said “ it is equally as important to pay attention to the small things and learn to appreciate them.” My son opens the car door for me. He is only 8, as he does it he says “I got you mom.” Priceless moment for me. I allow myself to feel appreciated and love. I celebrate the completion of my projects, I appreciate a kiss from my husband, a hug from my son and a call from a friend. Be in the moment, you realize how beautiful things are. Eliminate some distractions. It is ok to put your phone on do not disturb for self-care and not feel guilty about it. Live, love and laugh and enjoy it! You only have one.
    One life to live!

    1. Hi Betty!

      I’m glad you enjoyed this post. You hit the nail on the head when you said “be in the moment, you’ll realize how beautiful things are”. I love that. Just like you I have been trying to make time to be more in the moment and enjoy the small things. And how amazing your 8yo son opens the car door for you! Looks like he already has an understanding of how important the little things are and how big of an impact they have on our happiness. I hope you continue to enjoy every moment.

      Love,
      Carli