By Sunny Simon
I’ve been preparing for a big move for weeks. Yes, I’m trading in life in the Golden State for my next chapter in the Sunshine State. If you’ve ever moved across the country or across the street, you know when it comes to your personal belongings, there are many decisions to be made. For me, the big stuff is a cake walk. Selling my furniture and giving away clothing, kitchen ware and electronics, all a no-brainer. It’s the little things that give me pause. Articles like a mug, a shawl, a tray, a Christmas ornament, a selection of amazing spices, all gifted to me by friends will not be left behind.
That’s the way it is in life, right? The small items or happenings make your heart sing and bring you joy. A mother’s smile, a first kiss, the smell of coffee brewing in the morning, your fourth grader’s first home run, the list is infinite. It might be Pooh who said, “Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” Well said dear Pooh. And for all of life’s little things, we should express gratitude.
We can also view this “little thing” concept from a goal achievement perspective. Obviously scoring small wins count when working toward the big goal. As Van Gogh stated, “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” He certainly proved it with each tiny little brushstroke.
Sometimes something small inadvertently turns into a big accomplishment. I once read that Dale Carnegie’s mega-best-seller, “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” started with a short speech that expanded to a workshop, soon after became a course and eventually, the book. According to Wikipedia, over 15 million copies of this book have been sold worldwide. So maybe the life lesson here is dream big but start small. Consider the possibility of something you start as a little project. (Note to self: Listen to your own advice. Turn your career columns and motivation blogs into two separate books. )
So this week, my advice is twofold. Take notice of, and delight in the small things. Show appreciation to the guy who let you cut into traffic, the barista who made you the perfect Tall Flat White and the sound of your loved one’s laughter. At the same time, review your catalog of small projects and determine if you’ve created a diamond in the rough. The possibilities are endless. Sunny Simon is the owner of Raise the Bar High Life and Career Coaching. She sends thanks and appreciation to the readers of her column.
