Last week, I went on vacation with my boyfriend’s family. We spent a week in a house with four kids under the age of four, and I realized that toddlers can teach us a lot about living life to the fullest. Here are some things I learned (and have been trying to abide by):
It's okay to cry it out
Your sister stole your chips. It’s bedtime. The ocean is scary. You’re hungry. Sometimes, life’s biggest frustrations call for a tear or two, and that’s perfectly acceptable. Throw a tantrum, have a hissy fit and get back to enjoying your life.
Sugar makes everything better
Let’s say you fall and hit your head on the couch and cut your lip. Know what makes that feel better? A popsicle. What if you find out you didn’t get the job you wanted? Ice cream numbs the pain. Did you get too sunburnt on the beach? Grab a bag of salt water taffy and drown your sorrows in it. The temporary sugar high will get you through, don’t worry.
Take the time to explore the world around you
Nothing is quite as fascinating as the ocean and the sand, and it’s okay to spend your day digging for seashells or making sandcastles. It’s also okay to take the time to smell (and sometimes pick) the flowers that you come across. And it’s definitely okay to chase the birds down the coastline just because – nothing is more freeing.
Take a nap
Life can be stressful and can wear on you no matter what age you are. It’s okay to take a mid-afternoon nap to recharge and be able to fully enjoy the rest of your day. Be sure not to sleep through dinner though, because then you’ll wake up grumpy and hungry, and no one wants to deal with that.