There's a gem in simplicity. As someone once said, the best things in life are free. What are these? Love, Friendship, Nature, Kindness, Memories, Laughter, Creativity, Gratitude – add more to the list. These are the same things that give us a wholesome life. As we pursue our ambitions, we all have an ultimate goal, mostly to attain the things that are supposed to be free.
Think about it. Most of us work hard to have comfortable lives with our loved ones, full of laughter, to be creative, and as we put it, "to do whatever I want." We aim to amass more wealth so that we can be kind to others without feeling the pinch of reduced income, and we want to make merry with our friends. We aspire to spend time in nature and reconnect with it in its various senses.
Is it possible to attain these free things in life without waiting for success? Of course, it is. And of course, it would be even better with financial security, but that shouldn't stop you from enjoying the free things now. This is what gives you more balance in life.
In our pursuit of success and prosperity, it's easy to overlook the abundance that surrounds us in everyday life. The essence of a fulfilling existence lies not in material possessions or financial wealth but in the intangible treasures that money can't buy. How can you benefit from these free things in life?
When was the last time you reached out to a friend just for the sake of it? Not because you needed something or heard some story – just because. Are you the friend you've always wanted to have, or are you waiting to be friended first? How many minutes a day do you spend with your loved ones being actively present? Not just in the same room but on different gadgets? Keep things simple and nurture those friendships and relationships; it might be the next best favor you've done for yourself.
How many times, for instance, have you taken time to just enjoy your surroundings? I know for those living in the concrete jungle, that might be a challenge. But that does not limit you – what buildings have come up around your environment? What colors are they? What's the architecture like? How many trees do you have in your neighborhood? Are you content with that? What's the quality of the air around your home? Do you need to invest in houseplants?
You might also want to reflect on the memories you are creating for yourself and your loved ones. Do you have any pleasant memories that can carry you through tough times? Do your loved ones have something they fondly remember or look forward to doing with you? Are you intentionally creating memories, or are you waiting for a certain level of wealth before you start? Or are we fixated on the one grand gesture we make each year?
Deep down, we all want to impact the world in one way or another. How about starting from where you are, being kind with what you have? Most philanthropists will tell you they began their philanthropic efforts not because they had a lot, but because they dedicated a portion of their earnings to help others. Sometimes it doesn't have to be monetary; it can be volunteering to help others or using your talents to benefit others.
What impact do you want to have on Earth? What do you have now that you can start with? We all have something we can begin with, and that's why we have that desire deep down. Most of the things we really should do are quite simple, common-sense things. We're just too invested in the pursuit of happiness that we forget that truly, the best things in life are free.
I challenge you today to try some of these simple, common-sense approaches, and you'll see a significant improvement in your outlook on life. Abound in love, connection, and gratitude. Embrace simplicity by focusing on life's most precious gifts that are priceless.
