Lessons In Simplicity From Children

I could go on and on all day about all of the amazing things that I have learned in the few years since becoming a mom and all the changes for the better that I have made in myself simply because they make me want to be a better person. Lessons like, appreciate small things, stop to smell the roses, life is too short not to live it today. They have taught me these things through the amazing things they say and do. But also, motherhood changes you. You worry more. You realize that anything happening to this little being would be like having your heart ripped out. You realize because of that not to yell so loud, not to be so frustrated, to laugh out loud when they make fun of you, to get in just one more hug before bed, and to appreciate the moments, the days, the years in which you are shaping a life and creating memories to last a lifetime.

Most of all, my two children have taught me important lessons in simplicity.

Just Say No

Ever feel like you are overworked, overwhelmed, and have too many things on your plate to take care of each day? Why not improve your ability to say no? Stop feeling pressure to say yes to everything and try to please everyone. Know your limits and don’t be afraid to take back yourself and your time by saying no sometimes.

Take A Nap

Is your day dragging? Just finished lunch and can barely keep your eyes open? When did napping become a sign of laziness? Last time I checked, our bodies tell us when we need sleep or food and any number of other things. Listening to your body and taking that time to rest when you need it will make a world of difference in overall productivity, mood and health.

Say What You Mean And Mean What You Say

Kids are quick to share their thoughts without abandon. While often brutally honest, it’s still refreshing to know you can get an honest opinion from a child.

Use Your Hands

A big part of simplicity is getting back to basics. Make things, grow things, and create. This is the basis of childhood – digging in the dirt, painting, drawing, using imagination and creativity to make things. Most children just love to use their hands and be part of creating things.

Stop And Smell The Roses

Sure, kids love toys and big parties with cake and presents. But those things are so far and few between. What kids really love are just little things. Something I may not even notice or remember is something that my child may latch onto as a perfectly wonderful moment. They may revel in the beauty of a caterpillar or stop to point out the moon. Things that we have become so used to that we no longer stop to appreciate are things that children remind the beauty of.

Dance Like No One Is Watching

Children have this ability to just be themselves, without any concern for what others think of them. They can be goofy or obnoxious or embarrassing and just not notice or care. They don’t worry about what others think. They’re pretty confident – both in themselves and others. Live your way and stay true to yourself.

Play

Make time in your life to relax and enjoy. Go to the beach, take a vacation, laugh, run in circles if you must. Be active, giggle and squeal, enjoy the time that you are here. You only get one life. Make the most of it.