One of the most over used and under used phrases is “it’s the little things in life” or “life’s little things go a long way.” How many times have you heard or said:
- Pay attention to the little things.
- It’s the small details that matter.
- The devil is in the details.
- Tiny gestures go a long way.
Our Opportunity: Be one of Life’s Little Things, In a Positive Light
Typically, when we think of the positive ‘life’s little things,’ we’re remembering a moment, a detail. Our personal experience.
A much needed hug that calmed the storm. A hike through the woods on a crisp, autumn day. The cheerful song of your favorite bird. The photograph that seemed just ok in the field, turning in to a favorite photo. The reliable hoppy, happy greeting from our dog when we get home. Holding hands with your partner, a friend, in silence.
At work, it’s the people who celebrate the small stuff. The people who offer an encouraging word when exploring new territory. Add levity when the intensity gets in the way of moving forward. Share tough feedback combined with support in defining next steps.
These actions, experiences, create emotions that last. And those that last, carry us through future hurdles and joys in reliving our past.
Life’s Little Things Really Are a Two-Way Street
With today’s current events, our face to face interactions happen via phone or video. It’s up to us to make that time count. Sure, not every conversation is going to be a life changing milestone or memory. It doesn’t need to be.
But what if we consider our intention before the dialogue and before others have needs from you? And, what about your intention when you reach out to others for their time to help you?
Two intention words: Attitude and gratitude.
Awareness of the Flip Side
In photography, one fleck of missed sensor dust detracts from that near-perfect golden sunset. The snide, snarky comment derails momentum when sharing a highlight from the day. The quick negative feedback followed with, “I’ve got a meeting, we’ll talk later” leaves unrest.
These reflect real-life interactions that remain in our memories too. As we’re real-life moment makers, we’re remembered by our negative actions. These negative actions reflect intent to others. Even when unintended.
All of us, the positive moment makers, are also the negative Nellies and Nelsons too. We give great memories and we give ugly ones too.
Attitude and Gratitude
One takeaway for all of us. Our consistent prevailing attitude and giving gratitude towards others is what’s remembered. If we go in with a mindset of giving, sharing, honesty (even when it hurts), by default we’re creating positive little things that will be remembered. And, maybe even cherished.
For reference and a good read: The Amazon Kindle book: The Little Things, Why You Should Really Sweat the Small Stuff by Andy Andrews shares a real perspective on the impact of Life’s Little Things.
For another Monday Morning read: Memories and Moments: They Last
