How Often Do You Notice the Life You’re Living?
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. 💛
Tags Finding Happiness
I am happy, loved and feel cherished! Another joy, just ordered seeds for my vegetable garden! Spring is on its way!
Lauren, Thank you for sharing! Spring is on the way and you’ll be harvesting your veggies in no time. Good nourishing food is the best form of self-care. Enjoy!
I am still celebrating my 70th birthday from February. I didn’t expect to be still working, after “retiring three times!!. Seventy brought a new focus for me- I am very grateful to come to this age, remaining healthy, still working, now out of necessity, but I do have time to enjoy life to pursue a second masters degree. Yes, there are challenges, however, I have been at peace.
Karen, Happy Belated Birthday! Sounds like you are leading a very fulfilling life and you have your health. Congratulations on pursuing your second master’s degree. Wow! Continue to strive for peace. You got this!
Deborah, Thank you! I realize I have a challenge, I hate writing long papers :-) but enjoy learning! I really appreciate the support! Take care!
Thanks for bringing this perspective to us. Personally, I need to smell the roses more often.
Rhonda, Now’s the time! Soon there will be plenty of roses blooming!
I’m a new subscriber to 60 & Me. And as I read your articles, I keep thinking that I wish I had been exposed to these ideas in my 20’s and 30’s. I keep sharing your articles to my daughter who is 24. I feel like your articles provide so much wisdom for both young and older women. If there would be a way to partner with a similar program that could reach a younger audience, I think it could have an important impact on young women as they continue to grow and develop in their lives.
Thank you so much for your kind words! It means a lot to hear that my articles resonate with both you and your daughter. I love the idea of reaching a younger audience—so much of what I share comes from lessons learned over time, and it would be wonderful to help younger women navigate their journeys with more confidence and clarity. I truly appreciate you sharing my work
I loved this article! I am 81 and for the last year was thinking of trading in my sweet Mustang for something more practical. She is a red convertible that I treasure. The hell with more practical!!!! Thank you again!
Dee, I hope you enjoy your Mustang for many years to come!
Thank you!!!!