The Joy of Simple Pleasures in Our Ambitious Lives

Quick to succeed achievement-driven living promoted in our fast-paced modern world makes the simple pleasures of life feel more distant by comparison. We live with the ceaseless drive to reach more and further ways — a promotion, that next level of education or another social medal. But when our feverish pursuit of success distracts us from the former, it is vital that we take time to reflect on those straightforward joys in life which bring forth meaningful experiences and a sense of contentment.

Success is a relative term; it depends on what you want out of life and also, I think it has to do with societal norms. Yes, we should hustle our way to our dreams and it will be thrilling but most of the time we tend to disregard that little things which make everything better. Feelings of joy that originate from having a warm cup of coffee in the morning, or going on an outdoor trip with nature, to spending time within family are seeds for smiley faces and well being.

We need to feel pleasure in our activities, not taking it easy once a week — this is balance. Engaging in activities that we actually enjoy like dancing, baking, or excercising… unleashes creativity and joy. They offer a much-needed break from the daily grind and bring happiness that can often get lost in working toward a larger target.

Additionally, engaging in these small pleasures goes hand-in-hand with presence — sort of like mindfulness. This calls us to be present to life as it happens rather than fixing our attention the future in a state of powerlessness. Real happiness lies not in hitting metrics, but also embracing the process.

That in tackling worlds, may we remember to see the beauty of what is within reach everyday. The sound of laughter from the most smallness things or situation we came across is our energy & eye opener for more goals to achieve while living, Ah, but truly these moments are what make life so worth living; a sweet nudge in the form of happiness.