Do the things
Living a life of joy and wonder
James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, has written that, ‘It’s alarmingly easy to let a year or two (or five) slip by without doing the big things you always felt like doing.’
This is undoubtedly true for many of us. We might say that we’d like to do a marathon one day, or take the kids to Disneyland, or visit the Great Barrier Reef. But without making any solid plans to accomplish those goals, they’ll stay as distant wishes.
However, today’s short but sweet article isn’t about goal setting to accomplish big things. It’s about making space in busy schedules to enjoy the little things.
Because while many of us do let years slip by without doing the big things, it’s just as likely that we are letting years slip by without doing the little things.
The little things like blowing bubbles for a toddler. Or really watching the sun set. Or walking barefoot on soft grass.
Life is made of the little moments.
Many of those little moments are filled with the routine tasks of brushing teeth, packing lunch boxes, and searching for lost shoes. Those moments are unavoidable – we do want to avoid cavities and have snacks and take children to the shops with matching shoes. But sometimes we say no to joy and wonder because we’re so wrapped up in completing the next task on our never-ending list.
So, here’s my challenge to you:
Say yes to doing a little thing.
You might never run that marathon. The kids might have to make it to Disneyland on their own dime. And the Great Barrier Reef might succumb to climate change before you make your visit.
But if you’ve filled your daily life with little moments of joy and wonder, you won’t feel lacking.
I'd love to hear your thoughts! What is a small thing you said yes to recently?
Oh, and before you go
If you enjoyed this article, and want to read more, consider subscribing for free. That way you won't miss a single article, they'll appear right in your email inbox. We have an article coming up soon about what the science really says about how much babies should sleep, and another about love and limits.
But if you can't wait for next time, check out my archives! There’s something there for everyone, including this one about saying yes to puddle play (perfect as we head into rainy winter days).
Beck xx