Stories and Strategies to help you manage your thoughts. Be more energetic. Build stronger connections with those you care about.
The blue stone bracelet
Last night I found myself reflecting on a recent memory that unfolded a few Saturdays ago.
It was a simple experience.
One that weaves into our ongoing journey of self-awareness and emotional well-being.
My sister, visiting from London with her family brought along the excitement for a long-awaited cousins’ weekend.
After a delightful dinner, she revealed sleek black velvet parcels from her handbag.
And she presented them to my daughters.
This was more than just a gift.
It was a moment to be truly present.
To absorb myself in the beauty of the small details.
The air was sprinkling with excitement.
My girls were eager to open the velvet packs.
Their delicate fingers dance as they untie the bows.
The subtle squeaking of happiness is evident from their smiles.
The joy in their eyes as they discovered beautiful blue stone bracelets.
For hours, days and even weeks, these bracelets were treasured.
Carefully packed away after each use.
Each one is hidden under a pile of sweaters.
But then, six weeks later…
… I noticed one bracelet lying forgotten on the bedroom carpet, while the other remained hidden under a pile of sweaters.
This reminded me of a section I'd read from Brené Brown's book, Atlas of the Heart.
I learnt that:
-We're naturally drawn to new and exciting things.
-Over time, even the exciting things become ordinary.
-Positive emotions are short-lived and we quickly adapt to them.
But gratitude is where the magic comes into play.
Gratitude creates a pathway to help us acknowledge and appreciate something.
It helps us see the deeper value in what we have.
And allows us to enjoy more fully the benefits of what we already have.
Practising gratitude is more than feeling thankful.
It means:
-Appreciating life
-Finding joy in simple things.
-Being present in the moment.
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Start your journey by taking “A Mindful Pause.”
Notice the everyday little wonders.
The ones you usually ignore.
Reflect on something small or big in your life and appreciate its presence.
-The warmth of a winter meal.
-The sound of squabbling children.
-The smile you bring out on a stranger's face.
What did you choose to focus on?
How did it make you feel?
Did this “Mindful Pause” shift your perspective?
I would love you to hear about your experiences.
Practising gratitude will transform your perspective.
It’s a simple action you can start to practice today.
It's a tool to reconnect with what matters.
Wishing you a week filled with moments of gratitude that transform your days.
Khatija
P.S. Remember gratitude is a journey. If you’d like to explore this path further, consider booking a session with me: https://calendly.com/concisevisuals/discovery-call
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