I was just listening to a podcast from Tara Brach, meditation teacher and psychologist, about happiness. She said the three ingredients to happiness are: gratitude, giving back, and savoring.
For the last month, at the end of each day, I’ve been trying to reflect on what I’m grateful for — my family, my friends, and the moments I stop myself from sweating the small stuff. 🙂
I’ve also been thinking about how good I feel when I give back, when I’m able to step outside of myself and truly be there for someone else.
And I’ve also been trying to savor things more. So when my daughter gives me a kiss for no reason, or my husband takes my hand when we’re walking down the street, or when I’m eating a homemade chocolate chip cookie, I try to take an extra moment to enjoy it and just let it sink in, because I know the next moment could be different.
One of my favorite quotes on the spirit of giving is: “For it is in giving that we receive.” – Francis of Assisi.
I added the quote to a free printable just in case you want one for your home during the holidays. Mine is sitting on a top of my cabinet in my dining room, and every time I read it I think… how true.