Your Best Right-Now: Tips for Lasting Happiness
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Chapter 1: Embracing the Present
In our fast-paced world, technology is ever-present, and while I appreciate it, I often find myself caught in its web. From smartphones to tablets, and even fun distractions like Wordle and videos of owls in my backyard, I enjoy all these modern conveniences. However, this constant connectivity can sometimes overshadow the beauty of living in the present moment. How often do we send texts while our loved ones are nearby, or post an old memory instead of creating a new one together?
I admit, I too get distracted by my phone, and my family can attest to this. Nonetheless, my desire is for us all to intentionally cherish what is happening right in front of us, at this very moment. This practice of savoring involves being aware and deliberately focusing on the pleasurable experiences unfolding around us.
Recently, I encountered a moment that beautifully illustrated this concept. For several years, one of my children endured a challenging and painful illness. Thankfully, he is recovering, and each day brings him closer to full health. Witnessing his transition from weakness to strength has revitalized our family. However, it wasn't until I saw him outside a couple of months ago that I truly felt relief.
It was a perfect spring day—the kind that seems to capture the essence of beauty. The sky was dotted with fluffy clouds, and every plant and blade of grass radiated vivid green. My son was sitting on a porch swing, his back turned to the window.
He had stepped outside to clip his nails but remained there, gazing into the distance. In that moment, I realized he was at peace, free from pain, simply existing in a world unbound by time, soaking up the sunshine.
I stood there for what felt like an eternity, overwhelmed with gratitude for his renewed health and the vibrant portrait of his youth framed by nature’s splendor. I truly savored that moment.
This unexpected and unplanned experience lasted only a minute, yet in times of worry or frustration, I reflect on its lessons as if they were profound teachings from a wise mentor.
We all have such moments; perhaps you're recalling one as you read this. Here are some suggestions to help you maximize these experiences, inspired by Dr. Martin Seligman's book, Authentic Happiness.
Tell Someone
Share your experiences with others and express how much the moment meant to you. This is a powerful predictor of pleasure. Personally, writing about my experience and sharing it here has made it feel even more real and enjoyable.
Build on It
Capture the moment in your memory or with a physical keepsake, and reminisce about it later. Focus on the details that made it special.
Congratulate Yourself
Embrace feelings of pride! Reflect on how long you’ve anticipated a moment like this. If others are impressed, let it inspire them as well.
Focus
Concentrate on specific elements while tuning out distractions. When I think back to my moment, the vibrant visuals stand out—colors, textures, and light. The experience was so rich, yet devoid of sound, smell, or taste.
Absorb
Allow yourself to be fully immersed in the moment without worrying about what you should be doing next or how it could be improved. Just live in the experience.
I encourage you to seek out your own beautiful moment and truly savor it. If you’re comfortable sharing, I invite you to leave a comment or reach out via email at [email protected]. I promise to give it my full attention!
If this article resonated with you, please consider sharing it with others who might find joy in it as well. To explore more of my writings, follow my Medium profile, Penny Rackley. Click here to receive notifications each time I post.
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