When traveling or spending time with family, I pause to say to someone I’m with, “Look, we are creating memories.” Or I’ll turn to pause and say, “Stop – look at what we are doing right now.” It’s my way of grounding myself at the moment, forcing a pause to truly appreciate what’s happening instead of rushing past it.
It’s easy to get caught up in the next thing – the next task, the next goal, the next responsibility – that we forget to acknowledge where we are right now. But when we do take a moment to stop and notice, we realize that much of what we have today is something we once hoped for.
The Gifts We Forget to See
Think back to a time when you longed for something you now have. It could be a home of your own, the stability of a steady income, a loving relationship, or the confidence and wisdom that only time brings.
These things were wishes at some point, and now they are part of your everyday life. But instead of celebrating them, we often move the goalposts. We say, “What’s next?” instead of “Wow, I’m here.”
The danger in this endless striving is that we miss the beauty of now. We overlook the quiet joys – morning sunlight streaming through the window, the laughter of a friend, the smell of fresh coffee, or the simple comfort of a familiar routine.
Three Questions to Recenter Yourself Today
If you find yourself always looking ahead, take a breath and ask yourself these three questions:
#1: What is something I have today that I once wished for?
Think about all the goals you have accomplished and pick one that made you especially happy. Then let yourself truly appreciate it. Name it. Feel gratitude for it.
#2: What small moment of joy can I notice right now?
Take a minute to examine yourself at this very moment. What brings you joy? It could be the warmth of your tea, the softness of your sweater, or the way the trees sway outside. Acknowledge it.
#3: How can I honor this moment instead of rushing to the next?
Once you know what makes this particular moment special, focus on it. Don’t think of a next good thing, just this one thing. This will help you slow down and be present right now. You can take a deep breath, or simply say, “This is good.”
Your Turn: What Joy Can You Notice Right Now?
Gratitude is not just a mindset – it’s a practice. The more we pause and recognize the beauty in our everyday lives, the more joy we cultivate. Life doesn’t always have to be a race to the next goal. Sometimes, the sweetest moments come when we simply stop, breathe, and notice.
Right here, right now.
Also on the subject: Embracing Gratitude: A Lifelong Journey of Resilience and Joy.
Time to Reflect:
I’d love to hear from you! Take a moment to look around – what small joy can you notice right now? Have you noticed it before but rushed to the next thing? What would take for you to stop and cherish your joyful moment right now? Share it in the comments. 💛
