7 Ways To Appreciate The Little Things In Life

Discovering how to appreciate the little things in your daily life can take practice. 

So often we are focused on the big things – setting big goals and focusing on the future that we forget to slow down and take notice of the small things around us.

No matter what your current situation is, the reality is that you can get into the habit of appreciating the little things in life every day.

What Does It Mean To Appreciate The Little Things?

Appreciating the little things from various aspects of life comes down to actively taking notice of the small things that are positive in your life.

Once you notice these little things you can learn to be grateful for them every single day.

These little things are different for everyone and the key is to notice the simple pleasures that bring you joy so you can surround yourself with them as much as possible.

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So, what’s the importance of appreciating the little things?

Quite simply, taking notice and appreciating the little things in your life can bring you a lot of happiness, joy and inner peace.

If you’re going through difficult times with your mental health or just having a bad day these little things can be a reminder that there is still love, positivity, and joy around you.

Most importantly, focusing on the small joys in life helps you practice gratitude on a daily basis which in turn creates positive emotions you can rely on.

You’ll begin to pay more attention to the good people in your life or find a new sense of appreciation for something you didn’t even notice in the past.

7 Ways To Appreciate The Little Things Around You

1. Go On A Gratitude Walk

My favourite way to practice gratitude on a walk is to use your senses to discover things to be thankful for. 

Use 4 out of your 5 senses – sight, sound, scent, and touch. I would usually add ‘taste’ for these types of activities but there is no need to taste anything on this walk!!

Here are some examples:

• The crisp fall air
• A tree-lined street
• A good song playing on a car radio
• Freshly baked bread from a local bakery
• A beautiful sunset

As you walk seek out some simple things to appreciate and just enjoy them in the present moment. 

Let your mind think about how each little thing makes you feel. 

Does it bring up any positive memories?

2. Try Some Gratitude Journal Prompts

Using a gratitude journal is an excellent way to appreciate the good things on a daily basis, but if you ever get stuck on what to write, gratitude writing prompts for your journal can be really helpful.

Here are some sample writing prompts you can use to help you see the good stuff all around you:

• What made you smile today?
• Write something you love about each season of the year.
• What comforts in life are you thankful for?
• What did you appreciate most about this week? List all things, big and small.

3. Create A Gratitude Board

A gratitude board is basically the opposite of a vision board.

A vision board is what you hope for in the future, while a gratitude board is used to see the beautiful things you have in life today.

Here’s a cute example of a gratitude board…

You can create a gratitude board like the example above where you can fill out notes with things you appreciate.

Another way is to add reminders of things you’re grateful for.

Some examples:

• Photos
• Postcard or letters
• Sticky notes
• Stickers
• Artwork
• Magazine images

You can get creative and add just about anything that makes you smile.

4. Make a Simple Pleasures List

This is another activity you can do using your 5 senses, which is a perfect exercise to discover little things you enjoy that you may have never thought of.

The main reason to create a simple pleasures list (basically a gratitude list) is so you can have it on hand to refer to (heck you can add it to your gratitude board).

Not only does creating this list of little things feel good, but it also enables you to see the positive things in life more clearly.

Examples of simple pleasures:

• Hugs
• A strong cup of tea
• The feeling of fresh sheets on your bed
• Rainy days with a good book
• A cold shower on a hot day
• Phone calls with a family member you love

5. Focus On Small Moments in Your Day

When you focus on small moments in your day it becomes easier to identify the little things in that moment that you appreciate.

One of my favourite moments in the day is getting into bed at night. The feeling of cozy pyjamas and soft sheets is so relaxing. I love this relaxing time to read or chat with my son (he always pops in to tell me about his day).

You too can pinpoint enjoyable moments.

It might be when you’re making your morning coffee, or your drive to work when you chat with your best friend on the phone.

If you have a little moment in your day you love, please share in the comments below!

6. Live in The Present Moment

Living in the present moment allows you to appreciate the now – and most importantly not dwell in the past or worry about the future.

There are a few ways you can practice being present, which will help you see more of the little things that do bring you joy.

Be present when talking to people

Dedicate your full attention to this person. Show eye contact, and be an active listener. This improves relationships and builds deeper connections.

Take notice of your environment

When walking around look up, listen and think about what’s positive in that very moment.

Practice mindfulness

Whether it’s mindful eating and appreciating the full flavour of your meal, or meditating and scanning your body for relaxation. 

7. Spend Regular Time with Loved Ones

Spending time with family members and good friends is a great way to find some little things to be thankful for.

You may love the pet name your Mom calls you or the way your bestie always has a funny joke to share.

You see, when you interact with people who make you feel good you’ll appreciate the little things about them and also find joy in simple moments you might have taken for granted in the past.

Appreciate The Little Things in Life Quotes

Find some inspiration with these wise words…

Without water drops, there can be no oceans; without steps, there can be no stairs; without little things, there can be no big things!”

– Mehmet Murat Ildan

“Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing.” – Camille Pissarro

“It has long been an axiom of mine that the little things are infinitely the most important.” – Arthur Conan Doyle

“The Lord likes small things best, especially those done with love.” – Mother Teresa

“You need to let the little things that would ordinarily bore you suddenly thrill you.” -Andy Warhol

“It’s the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen.” – John Wooden

Next Steps:

The easiest way to get started is to try one of the above exercises to help you see the great things in your everyday life.

Once you try one you can move to the next – this way you’ll be able to see what makes the most positive impact on you.

Before you know it seeing the little things you appreciate will become second nature and ultimately make a big difference in how you see the world around you.

I’d love to know, what positive little things in life do you appreciate the most? Share in the comments below!

More Resources To Help You Appreciate The Little Things

• 15 Ways To Focus On The Good Things In Life
• 225 Things To Be Thankful For In Life
• How To Be Content With What You Have
• 30 Days of Gratitude Challenge
• 52 Gratitude Journal Prompts To Increase Happiness

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