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Taking notice of the Simple Pleasures
We all face countless beautiful moments every day, yet, one thing that doesn’t go our way has the potential to wreck our day. Why does our brain focus on the one shortcoming pointed to us at work? Why does a bad start to the day affect all that we experience later? There are numerous incidents that generate strong negative stimuli. This is because the human brain is hardwired to focus on negative emotions than positive ones. While delving into bad experiences, the brain prepares and alerts our body and mind against dangerous incidents, hoping to keep us safe.
Becoming naturally attuned to positive thinking and enjoying simple pleasures is a task. It comes with practice. Make a conscious decision to focus on positive experiences and thoroughly enjoy the feeling that comes along with them.
Why Simple Pleasures are important
Simple pleasures exist all around us. These are the delightful, often overlooked moments in life that bring us genuine joy and contentment. They are small, uncomplicated experiences that have the power to uplift our spirits and provide a sense of fulfillment. While they may seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things, these simple pleasures can bring profound happiness and remind us to appreciate the beauty in everyday life.
What more? Simple pleasures come with numerous benefits:
- Takes in no extra money, time, and effort: You need not change your schedule or bring a remarkable change in your financials to enjoy simple pleasures. They are super easy to find and, in fact, run along your daily routine. What is more important is that we simply live in the present and make a conscious choice of diving into these pleasures.
- Brings us closer to personal goals: A research conducted by Psychology Today found that people who experienced simple pleasures stuck to their daily goals, compared to those who did not. It is no secret that with happiness comes a higher probability of better performance.
- Reduce anxiety and depression: Engaging in activities that bring you happiness releases endorphins and promotes a positive mood, offering some relief from stress. By immersing in simple pleasures, you can redirect your focus to the present moment, quietening the anxious and depressive thoughts.
How to identify Simple Pleasures
Simple pleasures actually exist everywhere; however, what it means to each one of us may vary. While painting may feel refreshing and a stress buster for one person, it can look like a very tedious task to another. Identify actions, hobbies, and things from your daily routine that give you joy. Explore nature, listen to different types of music, try new foods, or engage in acts of kindness. Pay attention to how you feel during and after certain experiences to create your list of simple pleasures.
When you are making your list, don’t overthink. Trust your instincts when something feels genuinely enjoyable or fulfilling. Your own internal compass can lead you towards simple pleasures that resonate with your unique preferences and values.
Here are 111 examples of simple pleasures that can bring joy and contentment to life:
- Enjoying the stroke of the sun’s warmth on your skin.
- Taking a leisurely walk in nature.
- Savoring a delicious piece of chocolate.
- Listening to your favorite song.
- Dancing like no one is watching.
- Cuddling up with a good book.
- Watching a beautiful sunset.
- Laughing until your stomach hurts.
- Having a heart-to-heart conversation with a loved one.
- Snuggling under a cozy blanket.
- Watching your favorite movie or TV show.
- Enjoying the cup of first coffee.
- Getting lost in a captivating piece of art.
- Having a picnic in the park.
- Taking a relaxing bubble bath.
- Feeling a gentle breeze on your face.
- Having a good night’s sleep.
- Writing in a journal or diary.
- Petting a friendly dog or cat.
- Completing a crossword or puzzle.
- Playing a musical instrument.
- Planting and tending to a garden.
- Trying out a new recipe and savoring the flavors.
- Hugging someone you care about.
- Watching the stars in the night sky.
- Going for a bike ride.
- Exploring a new city or town.
- Having a picnic on the beach.
- Splashing in puddles after the rain.
- Trying out a new hobby or craft.
- Having a good hair day.
- Listening to the sound of rain on the roof.
- Finding money you didn’t know you had.
- Waking up to a beautiful view.
- Enjoying a delicious, homemade meal.
- Curling up by a fireplace.s
- Receiving or writing a handwritten letter or card.
- Watching a baby or young child laugh and play.
- Going for a refreshing swim.
- Singing along to your favorite songs.
- Exploring a library.
- Having a productive day and accomplishing tasks.
- Watching your favorite sports and your favorite team win a game.
- Reconnecting with an old friend.
- Building a sandcastle at the beach.
- Taking a road trip to explore local places.
- Gazing at the beautiful full moon.
- Receiving a surprise gift.
- Baking cookies and enjoying the sweet aroma.
- Going for a hike in the mountains.
- Finding a moment of solitude.
- Experiencing the first snowfall of the season.
- Having a lazy day in your pajamas.
- Adorning a new hairstyle or makeup look.
- Participating in a random act of kindness.
- Enjoying a refreshing ice cream cone on a hot day.
- Trying out a new restaurant or cuisine.
- Catching up with an old collague.
- Watching birds.
- Listening to the sound of ocean waves.
- Getting lost in a captivating podcast.
- Going for a scenic drive in the countryside.
- Having a good laugh with friends.
- Spending quality time with a beloved pet.
- Trying out a new fashion style or outfit.
- Having a relaxing massage or spa treatment.
- Finding a new favorite song or artist.
- Attending a live performance or concert.
- Spending time in a hammock, gently swaying.
- Playing role play with children.
- Watching a loved one succeed or achieve a goal.
- Participating in a yoga or meditation session.
- Going on a shopping spree and treating yourself.
- Receiving a surprise visit from a friend or family member.
- Trying out a new workout or exercise routine.
- Watching a baby animal in its natural habitat.
- Taking a scenic train or boat ride.
- Spending time with children and experiencing their sense of wonder.
- Enjoying a delicious slice of pizza.
- Going for a long drive with no specific destination.
- Trying out a new scent or fragrance.
- Building a fort or pillow fort in your living room.
- Making someone else smile or laugh.
- Trying out a new type of cuisine or exotic dish.
- Going to a farmers market and enjoying fresh produce.
- Watching a funny video or comedy show.
- Feeling the sand between your toes at a beach.
- Participating in a lively game night with friends or family.
- Giving a fresh look to your room.
- Watching a beautiful flower bloom.
- Trying out a new hobby or skill.
- Adding a new color dress to the wardrobe.
- Taking a moment to appreciate a mocktail/ cocktail.
- Feeling the softness of freshly washed clothes.
- Receiving a warm, genuine compliment from a stranger.
- Dancing in the rain.
- Practicing self-care.
- Trying out a new form of art, such as pottery or sculpting.
- Having some extra sleep over the weekend.
- Enjoying a hot bath with scented candles.
- Going for a long, peaceful walk by yourself.
- Spending time in a cozy coffee shop, reading, or people-watching (not judging).
- Doing nothing and enjoying it.
- Reading a poem or singing a song dedicated to your loved one
- Appreciating the first flower in your garden.
- Making a travel plan.
- Attending a family get-together.
- Moving a step closer to achieving daily or weekly goals
- Feeling proud to be kind and forgiving.
- Celebrating a day of mindfulness
- Creating your own list of Simple Pleasures
Remember, these are just examples, and everyone has their own unique set of simple pleasures. Explore, discover, and embrace the small joys that bring happiness and fulfillment to you.
