Knowing what you do not want in life is sometimes easier than knowing what you do want. In any given day I’m doing something I would rather not wish to (doctor appointments, getting an oil change for my car, commuting to work…) I know that I do not want to waste my time doing work that I do not believe in for someone who is not kind. I know that I do not want to be unhealthy or spend time with people who are toxic to my wellbeing. But what do I want? To be respected, loved and successful is a given. But success isn’t just financial stability, it’s a healthy and joyful life.
The little joys and pleasures of life are what accumulate into joyful days and a happy life. I want more of the little things.
The other day I made a list in my notebook. I made a list of everything I want more of in my life to what I want to do, feel and have. And I noticed a few themes. None of it had to do with a big house or accumulating more stuff. It came down to a few common denominators: art and hobbies, health, connection (family, friends, society), nature and joy for the little things.
I did not include things that I wanted to do less of or eliminate from my life. I feel that when you put more time and effort in what you do want, the rest falls away naturally. I loved this little exercise and realization so much that I thought I would share my list with you. I hope that you will take a moment today to write down your own list. How do you want to spend your free time? What do you want to experience more of? What little things make you happy that you wish you noticed or did more often. Make your own list of joys to fill your days with.
In other words, a wish list for living.
My list of things I want more of in my life…
Polaroids and film photographs
Gardening
Art: To see more of it and create it
To slow down
Quality time with my husband
To feel like I’m enough
Healthy home cooked meals (cooking them together with my husband and eating together at the table)
Time for tea in the morning before work
Better rest and sleep
Reading before bed
Eating dinner together at the table
Time to read books
Picnics
Time for my book club
Dining al fresco
Art journaling
Reading more of my favorite magazines
Sewing, quilting, textile creations
To start a book and finish it
Inviting people over (small gatherings with friends and family)
Travel: local and far away
To stare at art in museums
Music in the morning
Water coloring and painting, preferably outside
Rewatching my favorite films and shows
Time with my friends
To be kinder to myself (especially with self-talk)
To be outdoors: To swim, to kayak, to hike
Tea parties
Garden gatherings
Dancing; Zumba, dancing around the kitchen, going out to dance
