When was the last time you stopped to smell the roses?

Well, maybe not actual roses, but metaphorically speaking.

Learning to acknowledge and value the meaning of an event, act, or even in some cases, an inanimate object has been shown to improve personal well-being.

Taking time to recognize and appreciate events or even objects is also a great way to avoid taking things for granted.

It’s easy to move from one accomplishment to another without taking time to stop and appreciate meaningful moments in life. But doing so can result in a feeling of burnout and being on a never-ending treadmill.

I know chasing dreams and goals, the pressure of fulfilling expectations, both yours and the ones others have imposed on you, can keep you in continuous motion with what seems like little or no time to stop and enjoy what some might consider small wins. But learning to stop is more beneficial for you in the long run. If it helps, think of stopping as a racecar driver would about a pit-stop—a brief pause to refresh and replenish yourself for the next round of activity.

So, take a moment today to stop and smell whatever roses are in your life. Think of an event, person, or even object that in the past twenty-four hours has positively influenced your life and feel a sense of appreciation for them or it. Oh, and of course, if you have access to real roses, and if you’re so inclined to do so, please do take a moment to smell them.

P.S. Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed it, please share it with one person you love.