What Do You Notice?
Just for a moment, stop what you are doing and take a listen. What do you hear? What do you see? Who do you see? What do you notice? Life can have us in such a rush that we forget to take time to stop and pay attention to who and what is around us. Sometimes, we forget to pay attention to our needs. It's important that we check in with ourselves and pay attention to what's going on in our body and mind. It's important that we notice our responses, attitudes, and actions. It's important that we notice what makes us happy and what drains us. It's important that we notice what helps us stay calm and what is centered around chaos. In this season especially, we need to pay attention to us π. Let's not just notice us, but let's notice who and what is around us. Our environment matters. Today, I come to encourage us to pay attention to details. It's about noticing the big and small. It's about being aware in our daily interactions and routines, as well as our quiet timeπ. Here's some things in my life I've noticed lately:
- Rest my body and mind as often as I can- my mind can be in several different directions (someone may can relate) and the days can get long.
- Progress over perfection- I'm always looking for growth and improvement.
- The small wins, along with the big wins- All are important π!
- It's okay to miss my people who are gone, while still moving forward each day and living my best life. I think about all the things and laughs I would share with my people, especially my Mom and Dad.
- Things that make me smile - Sitting on my porch enjoying a beautiful day, packing shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child, having uplifting conversations and laughs with my people, and movie nights are a few things that are making me smile lately π.
- Knowing when to be still is just as important as being productive.
- People I connect with daily need to know they are cared about- One positive interaction or kind word can change one's life π.
- Rushing gets you nowhere. Take my time and appreciate the moments I'm given.
- Take advantage of the beautiful outdoors and get fresh air.
- Fill my own cup- I had the amazing opportunity to connect with other women this last weekend at a prayer breakfast. I enjoyed it so much and it was great to be encouraged! It was beautiful to see the different ages and community churches come togetherπ.
- Getting movement breaks/exercise is important.
- Setting healthy boundaries in all areas of my life is needed- I'm reading a book about it right now that is so helpful and encouraging!
- Doing my best is good enough- I can't control what others do, but I can control what I do.
- My likes and dislikes as I continue to grow and learn more about myself.
- Showing interest and checking in with others makes a difference- Ever since I started being more intentional about book chats with my students recently (I ask about their book read, what it's about, what they like/don't like), one of my students wants to tell me about his book every chance he gets and is very excited about reading now. It all started with a question, "How do you like the book you're reading?" I'm grateful it sparked excitement π. It could be a conversation. Sometimes, all it takes a question. Just make sure you let people you notice them and care. Our world needs that now more than ever.
- Every moment God gives me to live and breathe - it's a blessing!
- All the people in my life and opportunities I have to be thankful for every day π
Amen! Beautiful! Just taken a moment to say hello could change someone’s day!
ReplyDeleteThank you!! Yes, it sure could!!
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