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“Now is no time to think of what you do not have. Think of what you can do with what there is.” ~ Ernest Hemingway
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I know life isn’t easy.
We’re all grappling with something or another. We have broken dreams, shattered wishes, gaping holes in our lives that come to haunt us every now and then.
The ever-so-present existential crisis can hit anyone at any point. Sometimes things happen that are unfair, unreasonable, utterly senseless, or even undeserved. You go up and are suddenly thrown into an abyss that you can’t seem to get out of.
Well, in simple words: sh*t happens. And it is easy for us to get lost in it. Overtime, life’s challenges and demands can take away our ability to look at glimmers, those tiny moments infused with joy, laughter, calmness, kindness, and peace. We get so lost in doing things, making ends meet, or fighting battles that we tend to overlook the things that make life meaningful and fulfilling. Many times, from health to relationships, we often don’t truly realize the worth of what we have until it’s gone.
Here are 10 things we need to stop taking for granted—the small yet powerful pieces that add color and depth to our daily lives.
1. Our Health
Health is one of those things we often overlook until something goes wrong. It’s only when we fall ill or face a health crisis that we realize how much we need a well-functioning body and mind. “Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live,” says Jim Rohn. Staying healthy lets us pursue our dreams, care for our loved ones, and truly enjoy life. Taking a few moments each day to move, eat well, or just relax is an investment in this precious asset.
2. Family and Friends
Our families and close friends are often the people we turn to for support, but we can sometimes forget how important they are in our lives. Friends and family bring a sense of belonging, joy, and support, and without them, life can feel empty. As the saying goes, “Family is not an important thing, it’s everything.” Next time you’re tempted to cancel plans or get frustrated with loved ones, remember they’re some of the best gifts you’ll ever receive.
3. Time
Time might be one of the most precious things we have, yet we often let it slip through our fingers. We rush through our days, endlessly busy, but rarely stop to think about how we’re spending our limited hours. “The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot,” said Michael Altshuler. Let’s take a moment to ask ourselves: Are we spending our time on things that truly matter? Every second counts, so make the best of each one.
4. Mental Well-Being
Mental well-being is essential to leading a balanced, fulfilling life. But many of us tend to overlook our mental health until we’re struggling. In today’s world, where stress and anxiety can be constants, taking time to nurture our minds can make all the difference. As a gentle reminder, “You don’t have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you,” says Dan Millman. Taking mental health days, talking to a friend, or simply practicing mindfulness can help us stay grounded.
5. Nature and the Environment
We step outside every day, but how often do we take a moment to appreciate the sky, the trees, the breeze, and the sound of birds? Nature has a calming effect on the soul, reminding us that we’re part of something much larger. “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better,” said Albert Einstein. By respecting nature, we not only find inner peace but also protect it for future generations. Next time you’re outside, try to take a deep breath and soak in the beauty around you.
6. Freedom
Freedom—the ability to choose our path, our thoughts, and our words—is a privilege not everyone enjoys. It’s easy to take for granted, especially in parts of the world where freedom is a fundamental right. Remember Nelson Mandela’s words: “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” Cherish and use your freedom wisely, and be grateful for it every day.
7. Personal Growth and Learning
Personal growth often happens so slowly we barely notice it, yet every day we’re constantly learning and evolving. It’s easy to overlook, especially when life gets repetitive. But every small challenge, every lesson, contributes to the person we’re becoming. “The only journey is the journey within,” said Rainer Maria Rilke. Embrace every chance to learn, and appreciate the process of growth as it unfolds, even in seemingly small ways.
8. Comfort and Security
Having a safe place to sleep, food to eat, and a sense of security are basic comforts that many around the world are denied. When we have these things, it’s easy to take them for granted. “Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more,” Oprah Winfrey once said. A simple acknowledgement of the roof over our heads, the warmth of our homes, or the stability in our lives can bring a deeper sense of gratitude and peace.
9. Kindness and Compassion
Acts of kindness from strangers or loved ones might seem small, but they have the power to brighten our days and remind us of the goodness in the world. Compassion and kindness are treasures in a world that can often feel fast-paced and impersonal. “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted,” said Aesop. Be grateful for those moments of kindness you receive and seek opportunities to pay it forward—they matter more than we might think.
10. Self-Love and Acceptance
Finally, perhaps the most overlooked thing we take for granted is ourselves. Self-love and self-acceptance are the foundations of a happy life, but they’re often the first things to slip away when life gets busy or hard. “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance,” wrote Oscar Wilde. When we truly appreciate who we are, with all our flaws and strengths, we can live more authentically and find real contentment.
Appreciation is a choice we need to make every day. It’s in those simple moments, those quiet realizations, that we can truly see the blessings we’ve overlooked. And by recognizing and valuing these things now, we not only improve our quality of life but also nurture our inner peace.
Life is precious, and every part of it deserves our gratitude. Let’s not wait until something is gone to finally appreciate it.
“Enjoy the little things in life because one day you will look back and realize they were the big things.” ~ Kurt Vonnegut
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