We often overlook the ordinary things in our lives that could potentially make us extremely happy. In a society where we wake to our twitter feeds showing the recent tragedy that happened the night before or constantly thinking about money and that 9 to 5 job you actually HATE; here is a list of ten ordinary things that you probably experience quite often but never take the time to enjoy. Our lives as humans are to be enjoyed with such pleasures that we experience every single day. It's time we start waking up with a "glass half full" attitude. Aim to always look on the bright side in your daily life, because who wants to live in the dark?
1. Driving with the windows down.
Opening a door for someone at the gas station or complimenting someone's shoes is actually a very kind gesture that we never appreciate. SMILE at people. LOOK people in the eyes when you are speaking with them while paying at the grocery store. Even if you see someone on the street and make eye contact...SMILE. Express and share love and you will receive it back.
2. Laughing with a good friend.
Of course, we appreciate our friends and try not to take them for granted. Sometimes it happens, though, so take a moment every day to reach out and connect with the most important people in your life. The warm and fuzzy feeling I get when good jokes, celebratory achievements and all around happy moments are expressed in group messages, Snapchat or Facetime are priceless. Find your tribe and love them hard. Your close relationships with other humans are so important to your overall growth and self-fulfillment.
3. Alone time.
Taking time out of your day to focus on yourself in all areas is so underrated. Eating a meal, going to the library and taking a walk in the park alone are awesome ways to self-reflect and plan out your day with what you want to accomplish. We do many things independently or alone every day so use that time to benefit and help you.
4. Start talking about your passions.
Let's open up more discussion with our friends and close relationships about what we love and dream about. Talking about your dreams and self-goals you want to reach is quite beneficial. Something that I find great joy in is speaking with my girlfriends about my career aspirations and passions in life. We share our hopes for our lives that deal with our future career or what we want to change in the world. "Relationship goals" and "body goals" need to go. Let's start saying "Ugh, career goals!" Am I right ladies?
5. Reading a good book or blog.
Spending two hours a day on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook reading up on the recent beach trip your BFF took or the latest celebrity gossip has become the norm in our society. Pick up a good book or reread an old one. I love rereading Sarah Dessen novels as it takes me back to my beloved high school years (LOL.) Find a new blog or content platform that has great articles that you enjoy reading every morning as you eat breakfast. My favorites are The Odyssey, Thought Catalog and The Everygirl.
6. Eating dessert.
Whether this is a daily occurrence for you or not, never be afraid to dive in to some delicious Cookies N' Creme ice cream or a fudge brownie. We all deserve something sweet after a long day; or after any day for that matter. Eat it up.
