Notice: The Context

In this article, a definitive look at what philosophers, theologians, psychologists, and scientists throughout history have thought about living in the moment and appreciating the little things in life.

Start Small

Beginning a new journey can feel daunting, but in reality, short journeys and long journeys both begin with a single step. That’s why step one of your new journey is focused on the simple things that surround us all the time. It may only take a second or two to find something of beauty, and another two or three seconds to feel appreciation for it. Imagine if everything were that easy!

Consistent Small Wins Produce Large Benefits

Of course we feel a rush of positive feelings when we accomplish a difficult or large task, but what’s surprising is that even small, consistent wins can dramatically improve our happiness. And in taking notice of the little things throughout the day, you’re not only appreciating the beauty around you, but you’re successfully accomplishing a small but meaningful task. It’s like finding two bonus french fries in the bottom of the bag instead of just one!

In a Harvard Business Review article titled The Power of Small Wins, it was shown that small accomplishments in meaningful work led to significant improvement in the workers’ feelings about their work. These feelings are especially important for creativity and productivity, and will help you unlock further growth opportunities as you progress on your journey.

One additional finding noted that meaningful progress is necessary rather than simply “checking a box.” With this in mind, focusing on something beautiful will make you feel especially good and will pay long-term dividends if it’s also something meaningful. Perhaps it’s a loved one or a souvenir from a family trip. Briefly appreciating something meaningful for its beauty throughout the day is a simple way to reap the benefits of small wins.

Taking Notice

Studies have shown that being mindful predicts positive emotional states in those who practice it, and that increases in mindfulness over time can relate to declines in stress. The practice of taking notice is the first small step in achieving mindfulness throughout the day.

When looking at mindfulness more granularly and breaking out the concepts of gratitude and appreciation, studies have shown appreciation for the people and things in our lives “plays a significant role in one’s quality of life, independent of one’s personality or gratitude level.”

Picture Day

Taking pictures has become ubiquitous in our society, but does all the snapping and posting lead to diminished enjoyment of the things and experiences we encounter every day? A study conducted in 2015 suggests that taking pictures increases enjoyment of activities by increasing our engagement with those activities.

Taking pictures during a wide range of activities such as bus tours, concerts, museum visits and even ordinary activities such as eating lunch increases your engagement with that activity, and therefore your enjoyment of the experience. There are a few caveats however. If the act of taking the pictures is especially intrusive unless you’re passionate about photography, lugging around a bulky camera and reviewing your pictures immediately after taking them had an offsetting effect to the point where the cumbersome process of taking the picture negated the positive benefits of taking the picture in the first place. In addition, engagement stayed constant for activities that are especially engaging in the first place (a cooking lesson or craft project for example) whether you take photos or not.

To make the most of your monthly challenge, take plenty of pictures and don’t review them right away. Also feel free to use your camera phone if you think it’s easier than using an actual camera. Capturing moments both small and extraordinary will help you not only enjoy the moment more, but also help you relive the enjoyable moments in the future!

Modern Philosophy, Psychology, & Science

Modern science and psychology have both demonstrated the benefits of mindfulness practices for overall well-being. Mindfulness involves being fully present and engaged in the current moment, without judgment or distraction. Research has shown that mindfulness can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while increasing positive emotions such as joy and contentment. Additionally, practicing gratitude has been found to increase happiness and overall life satisfaction. These practices can help individuals to find joy and fulfillment in the present moment, even during difficult times (Davis & Hayes, 2011).

In modern philosophy, the concept of living in the moment and finding joy in the little things in life is often associated with existentialism and the idea of creating one's own meaning and purpose in life. Existentialist philosophers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche emphasized the importance of embracing the present moment and creating a life that is meaningful and fulfilling for oneself. They also argued that finding joy in the little things in life can help individuals to create a sense of happiness and fulfillment, even in the face of adversity (Sartwell, 2019).

Axial Philosophies Overall

Many of these traditions emphasize the importance of living in the present moment and finding joy in the little things in life, as a means of cultivating happiness and fulfillment (Jaspers, 1953).

Confucianism & Daoism

Confucianism emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and being fully present in the moment. It encourages individuals to find joy and fulfillment in the simple things in life, such as spending time with family, cultivating friendships, and appreciating nature. Confucianism also emphasizes the value of developing virtuous character traits, such as compassion, humility, and gratitude, which can help individuals cultivate a sense of contentment and appreciation for the present moment (Chan, 2021).

Daoism, also known as Taoism, shares a similar perspective to Confucianism on the importance of living in the present moment and finding joy in the little things in life. Daoism emphasizes the concept of "wu-wei," which means "non-action" or "effortless action." This involves living in harmony with the natural flow of the universe and allowing things to happen naturally, rather than trying to force outcomes or control situations.

Daoism also emphasizes the importance of simplicity, humility, and detachment from material possessions and desires. By letting go of attachments and desires, individuals can cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment, and appreciate the beauty and simplicity of everyday life. Daoism teaches that true happiness and fulfillment come from living in accordance with the natural order of the universe, rather than striving for external achievements or success (Kohn, 2013).

Hinduism & Buddhism

In Hinduism, the concept of "mindfulness" is central to the practice of yoga and meditation. It involves being fully present in the moment and cultivating a sense of awareness and appreciation for the simple things in life. Hinduism teaches that by letting go of attachment to desires and material possessions, individuals can cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment, and find joy in the present moment. Hinduism also emphasizes the importance of performing daily rituals and practices, such as prayer, meditation, and yoga, as a means of connecting with the divine and finding inner peace (Eck, 2013).

In Buddhism, the concept of mindfulness is central to the practice of meditation and is one of the core teachings of the Buddha. Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment, aware of one's thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations without judgment or attachment. Buddhism teaches that by cultivating mindfulness, individuals can break free from the cycle of suffering caused by attachment to desires and negative emotions.

Buddhism also emphasizes the importance of finding joy and contentment in the present moment, rather than constantly seeking external sources of happiness. The Buddha taught that true happiness comes from within, through developing inner peace, compassion, and wisdom. By living in the present moment and cultivating these qualities, individuals can find lasting happiness and fulfillment (Gunaratana, 2011).

Traditional Western Philosophy & Stoics

In traditional Western philosophy, the idea of living in the moment and finding joy in the little things in life is not as central as it is in Eastern philosophies. However, some philosophers have touched upon the concept of mindfulness and the importance of being present in the moment. For example, the Stoic philosopher Epictetus emphasized the importance of focusing on what is within our control and accepting what is not, in order to find inner peace and contentment. Additionally, the existentialist philosopher Martin Heidegger argued that by being fully present in the moment and embracing our own mortality, we can find meaning and purpose in life (Sartwell, 2019).

Christianity, Judaism, Islam

In Christianity, the concept of living in the moment and finding joy in the little things in life is often associated with gratitude and thankfulness towards God. Christians believe that by focusing on the blessings in their lives and being grateful for what they have, they can cultivate a sense of contentment and joy, even in difficult circumstances.

In Judaism, the concept of living in the moment and finding joy in the little things in life is associated with the practice of mindfulness and gratitude. Judaism emphasizes the importance of being fully present in the moment, aware of one's thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, and cultivating a sense of gratitude for the blessings in one's life.

Judaism also teaches the importance of performing daily rituals and practices, such as prayer, study, and acts of kindness, as a means of connecting with God and finding meaning and purpose in life. By focusing on these practices and cultivating a sense of mindfulness and gratitude, individuals can find joy and contentment in the present moment, even in the face of adversity (Boteach, 2003).

In Islam, the concept of living in the moment and finding joy in the little things in life is associated with the practice of mindfulness and gratitude towards Allah. Muslims are encouraged to be mindful and present in their daily lives, and to find joy and gratitude in the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah.