Embracing Life's In-Between Moments for more Joy and Fulfillment
This blog explores why enjoying the little things in life matters. It shows how these small moments can make us happier and less stressed. With research-backed insights, it explains why appreciating everyday experiences is crucial for our well-being. Plus, it offers easy tips to bring more mindfulness and gratitude into our daily lives. Let's celebrate the beauty of the ordinary, in-between!
the beauty of the in-between:
Life is quite the journey, isn't it? It's full of unexpected twists, highs, lows, and all those everyday moments in between. Lately, I've been reflecting on the beauty of these ordinary, in-between days — the stuff that makes up the majority of our lives.
Here's why this has been on my mind: Our brains tend to focus on the standout moments – the super highs (think: promotions, birthdays, weddings, vacations, etc.) and the difficult lows (think: loss, death, breakups, failures, unmet goals, etc.).
And speaking of the lows, research shows that our brain has a natural tendency to focus more on negative experiences than positive ones. This phenomenon, known as negativity bias, evolved as a survival mechanism. In our daily lives, this bias means we often remember the tough times more vividly, overshadowing the neutral or positive ordinary days.
So, it makes complete and perfect sense why we often overlook the in-between days, right? Even though these regular days might not be extraordinary or Instagram-worthy, they are still the very foundation of what makes up our lives.
the research shows:
Researches say that embracing ordinary moments is crucial for well-being, and here's why:
Happier Life: Most of our days are ordinary, and finding joy in these moments is key to overall happiness. Our daily routines shape the bigger picture of our lives, influencing how fulfilled we feel.
Less Stress: Appreciating everyday moments helps reduce stress. Being present and valuing the in-between times promotes a more balanced and mindful approach to life, easing feelings of anxiety.
More Gratitude: Embracing the in-between cultivates gratitude. When we appreciate the simplicity of daily life, we're more likely to find happiness in small things, fostering a positive mindset.
Positive Habits: Our lives are formed by daily habits. Recognizing the importance of ordinary moments encourages the development of positive habits, contributing to overall well-being and long-term goals.
Now, I've rounded up a few simple ways you can embrace the “in-between” this week. Here they are:
start your day:
Begin your day with a simple routine that brings you peace. This could be a calming meditation, a few moments of deep breathing, or even a mindful cup of tea. Starting your day with intention sets a positive tone for what lies ahead. Consider what small activities make you feel centered and incorporate them into your morning routine.
take a break:
Use your lunch break as an opportunity to step outside and take a breather. Whether it's a short walk or finding a quiet spot outside of work, allowing yourself to connect with nature can refresh your mind and boost your energy for the rest of the day. Use this time to unwind, clear your thoughts, and appreciate the present moment.
reflect before bed:
As you wind down for the night, take a moment to recall three positive moments from your day. These could be small wins, moments of joy, or instances where you felt grateful. Reflecting on the positive aspects of your day before sleep can create a sense of contentment and help shift your focus towards gratitude.
disconnect:
Dedicate moments each day to disconnect from screens and savor the present. This could involve putting your phone away during meals, taking short breaks without digital distractions, or enjoying moments of quiet without constant notifications. Being present in the moment allows you to appreciate the ordinary aspects of life without technical interruptions.
express gratitude:
Take a moment each day to be thankful for the simple things in your life. This could include your home, relationships, or daily routines. Cultivating gratitude for the seemingly mundane moments brings awareness to the richness and blessings of your life. Acknowledge and appreciate the simple joys that often go unnoticed - it's a simple act that goes a long way.
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