“It’s only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth – and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up – that we will begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had.” – Elisabeth Kübler-Ross

Savoring life is an everyday art that is not only possible, but can be mastered. It sounds simple, yet many people with jam-packed schedules and a too-full to-do list find that they may not really be loving life the way they could.

You may not have an hour to meditate every day, but there are simple ways to savor life and enjoy the moment you’re in right now.

Embrace the moment

Stop during the day to realize your own presence. Take note of what you’re doing. Wherever you are and whatever you’re doing, embrace it. You are here now. You are alive. That’s all you have to think about. Don’t focus on what you’re doing right or wrong. You are simply alive and that can mean whatever you want it to.

Notice the beauty

A gorgeous sunset, the fall colors, the innocence of children—there are wonderful things to appreciate about the world around you. Actively making a mental note of these things that you find beautiful or amazing is a perfect way to savor life. Breathe in the crisp, fresh air and marvel at the wonder of existing in such a beautiful world.

Seize the small moments

There may be no inspirational mottos like “carpe diem” for standing in line at the DMV, but you can still make it count by seizing your awareness. Take the time to center yourself and your thoughts, appreciating the necessity of the moment you’re in, even finding humor or beauty in it where you can.

Let go of the negativity

This is a big one. Positivity is essential to savor life, yet so many of us easily forget the power of our words and thoughts. Think about the things you have been saying and thinking today. Are they grateful, appreciative, kind, nice things? Or is a majority of your vocabulary full of “can’t” and “hate”, and other words like this? If so, then it’s time to really re-think positivity and the way it can shape your thoughts and words! When you catch yourself thinking something that is deconstructive or hurtful (to yourself or someone else), stop and think of a more positive, uplifting, or encouraging alternative.

Appreciate your purpose

There is a reason you’re alive today. Recognize your purpose and relish in it. Whether it’s big or small isn’t the important part because there are no such words as it pertains to a person’s impact in the world. If you feel called or driven to do something, then that’s where you’re meant to be. If you aren’t sure what your purpose is, then trust that you will find your way. You have plenty of opportunities and you can do whatever it is that you want to do—don’t get held back!

About Alex Blackwell

Alex Blackwell is the author of Letting Go: 25 True Stories of Peace, Hope and Surrender, which includes 10 free Peace and Balance tools.
Web | Inspiring Things | Free eBook: How to Love Consciously