I’ve recently finished reading a book about intentionally creating moments that bring you joy and delight. The book encourages you to reflect on special moments in your life, figure out why they stand out to you and then recreate them in different ways. This helps you not only enjoy your life more, but actually like your life.
This idea really stood out to me. They say that special moments have to be planned and given a bit of extra time because in our pursuit of higher efficiency, we will race past them without even noticing. And that is no way to live life!
This is true in every aspect of life – home, work, family. We have to intentionally choose to pause, to plan, and then to enjoy these things. It will truly help us better appreciate the life God has designed for us!
Home
Depending on what home looks like to you, moments could come in many shapes and forms. Perhaps it is found in painting your living room, getting a new bedspread, or changing out the knobs on your cabinets. None of these tasks are chosen because they are fast or free, but rather because they will help you to enjoy what you have even more!
Your home isn’t limited to just the interior (most likely). Consider getting a few plants for your porch, painting your door, or maybe even a small garden bed. There is so much joy and delight to be found in creating moments planning these things and carrying them out. Take your time, really enjoy it, and create a space that inspires and delights you!
My parents keep our home gorgeously. They always inspire me with the new ideas and details that they consider! From the plants and trees around the home, to the beautifully framed pictures inside, the details are carefully thought out and pulled together. Fast and free doesn’t enter into it, but rather careful time, hard work, and intentionality.
Work
Whether you work for someone or own your own business, it is important to look for and create special moments. Whether it’s stopping for a coffee drink to celebrate milestones, going to your favorite bistro to brainstorm new ideas, or getting a fresh bouquet to set on your desk, special moments are vital to keep you energized and excited about what you do!
If you work with others, you should definitely create moments that include them. Whether it is their birthday, they’ve hit a goal, or it is just another day, going out of your way to be kind to another person can really make an impact.
Family
Growing up, my parent’s always celebrated our birthdays and achievements. Every birthday we got to chose our favorite meal and dessert. And if that wasn’t enough, some birthdays had extra special meanings and treats to look forward to!
Turning 13 meant becoming a babysitter, staying up a bit later, and a meal and gift out at a special restaurant. Doing well in middle school meant getting our ears pierced. Special traditions and thoughtful moments that we eagerly anticipated!
Now with fewer people in the house, birthday parties don’t come as frequently, but that hasn’t slowed our celebrating. A milestone at work or a goal accomplished is eagerly celebrated with a bowl of ice cream or a piece of cake! Sometimes just the fact that we are able to spend time together has us breaking out the dessert bowls.
Love and celebrate your people well. We are in each other’s lives for a specific reason and we certainly want to make the most of it!
And remember, you don’t have to spend a lot of time or a fortune on creating these moments, you simply have to take a little time and give it a bit of thought.
I hope these ideas inspire you to find more joy in your days!
Until Next Time!
Hope.
PS. Here are a few memorable moments that stood out to me a little while back: https://www.theamericanlady.com/2019/01/09/lets-celebrate/ Enjoy!