Take Time for Pleasure

I am definitely not a fan of the mantra “Do whatever makes you happy” because so many people do that at the expense of others.   Selfish ambition.   “I want this and I don’t care who I hurt to get it.”   Nope that’s not the idea here at all.

What I’m talking about is taking time out of each day to enjoy something.   Take time for pleasure.   Take a moment to bring yourself to your happy place.

Today was a busy day.   I had to do all the kids medicines myself, treatments myself, get them all dressed, fed and out the door.   Drove them to school then came home to clean the dishes, empty the dishwasher, pick up the toys in the living room and steam clean the carpets.  After all that, I was ready for some food!   I forgot to feed myself which happens often.  I could have easily grabbed a granola bar and kept going but I took ten minutes to chat with a friend and bring some smiles and joy to both of our days.

I also made this…..

My favourite things!   Red pepper jelly on cream cheese on beet crackers.   Paired with my favourite drink: Nestea.   I savoured these treats while I took 15 minutes to read a chapter in my book.   Mmmmm happy place found.

So many people don’t appreciate the great things in our day.   The colours of the sunset, the flavours of the food we are tasting, the smell of the freshly dried laundry, the feel of the soft, clean sheets.   These are the things millions of people around the world would love to be enjoying today but can’t.

Our satisfaction with our lives can be greatly increased by taking the time to relish the moments of goodness.   Pay attention to the beautiful, the yummy and the things that make you smile.   Take in the scents, the feelings and the joy in experiences.    Fill your day with moments of goodness, happiness, and you’ll be amazed at how your mood shifts.

If you want to take this idea a step further, try starting a joy journal.  Keep track of the things that brought pleasure to your day.