I recently spent a few days in Hollywood, Florida, soaking up the sun and sand on the beach. While I was there, I got off social media, read good books, spent time with my mom and enjoyed the relaxing vacation. I feel like being on that trip opened up my eyes to a few different things, so here are five things I learned on the beach:

1. It's important to take time to slow down.

Being on the beach most of the trip, we didn't do all that much. Two of the days were spent relaxing in a cabana reading, resting, sleeping and periodically putting our feet in the water. Sometimes I felt lazy or like I should be exploring more, seeing more, DOING more. I think that's a concept hammered into my mind by society when really, life isn't always about how much you do. It's good to take a break from busy, hectic and loud and be still and quiet. We shouldn't overwork ourselves as much as we tend to.

2. It's the small, simple moments that are sweetest.

Joy doesn't only come from grand adventures. While grand adventures can be a source of fun and sweetness, I've found that simple and unexpected, unplanned moments and experiences are the best. Sometimes I place a lot of expectation on something fun I have planned and then what really ends up bringing me joy is something much smaller. We don't constantly have to try to create these giant, amazing moments when the small, sweet ones have been there all along.

3. Being near water can change your perspective.

I swear, I have all these epiphanies and positive changes of heart when I'm near water. For instance, in Florida, I began to appreciate life more than I had recently. It doesn't have to be a beach, though. It could be a lake in Michigan. Getting away from the everyday and going to water can really clear your thoughts and remind you of what's important in life, so I highly recommend it whenever and if ever you have the chance.

4. Reading an actual book beats reading Facebook.

I waste a lot of time looking at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat. When I gave that up over the few days I was in Florida, I was so glad I did because I had time to re-focus on what's actually important in life; not likes or comments or posts. It was really good for me and I think everyone should take a day or more to be off social media. Read a real book; spend intentional time with loved ones; actually live your life.

5. Life is sweeter when you choose to enjoy what's in front of you.

I feel like I was more present in the moment than usual when I was on my trip. Being present is something I am trying to work on because a lot of the time I do a pretty lousy job of it. However, being present helps to enjoy what's already in front of you rather than comparing to what others have, thinking about past or future events and ignoring your blessings. Life's better when you enjoy the small, sweet moments, happening NOW, without worrying about anything else.