One of my favorite things to do to help me feel better in any moment is to find things to appreciate. The practice of finding things to appreciate can be an easy way to help you raise your energy level and increase your positive outlook on life. The world is full of so many wonderful things. When we take the time to acknowledge the goodness that surrounds us, we not only begin to feel lighter in our mind and body, but we also begin practicing a positive habit that can help us live a more enjoyable and meaningful life experience.
Taking moments to appreciate can be as simple as acknowledging something that makes you feel good. It could be something you are appreciating in the moment, such as enjoying a delicious meal or an activity you are doing. Or it could be something from your past that is bringing you some joy in the moment or excitement for the future. For myself, I often find that it is the simple things that can bring me an instant smile and help me shift my mood quite quickly, such as appreciating the playfulness of my nieces and their zest for life, or my dogs that I love so much, or the good timing I might be having that day or in a moment and enjoying the flow state that I am in.
When we take these moments to appreciate throughout our day, our energy and perspective begin to shift, and not only do we begin to feel better, but we also start to find more things to appreciate in our lives. This helps build a positive momentum that can allow us to maintain a state of happiness more consistently.
If you are looking to integrate more well-being into your life, here are 5 ideas to help you get the appreciation flowing:
Before Bed and Morning Time:
Before bed, write down 5-10 things that you appreciated about your day. No matter how big or small they are, each time you spend a moment to feel appreciation, it is worth your time.
Driving:
Your car ride can transform into a satisfying drive when you start to find things to appreciate. Imagine spending an entire drive finding things in your life (or that surround you) that you appreciate. How much better will you feel when you arrive at your destination?
Nature:
Take a walk at your favorite park or nature spot and notice all the beauty that surrounds you. Appreciate the oxygen the trees and plants provide us, the warmth and energy of the sun, the fresh ocean air, or the lovely animals like birds that may be flying about.
Home:
What things are in your home that you can appreciate? Perhaps it is your bed, the heater or air conditioner, or the food in your refrigerator and cupboards. Maybe you have an outdoor space to enjoy, or perhaps you have items or decorations that you love. Appreciating aspects of your house can also help create an elevated space for you to continue to enjoy living in.
People:
What people do you appreciate in your life? What friends or family do you enjoy being around? What about them do you appreciate?
Inspired Action:
This week, take time throughout each day to find moments of appreciation. Writing reminders on your phone, your computer, your kitchen fridge, and your car can be useful to help you develop this joyful habit. You can also check out our YouMe Cards for more fun ways to appreciate!
I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below and let us know about your moments of appreciation! :)
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