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In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook the magic that surrounds us. We rush from one task to another, often with our eyes fixed on screens or lost in thoughts of what’s next. But what if we paused, just for a moment, to observe the world with the wonder of a child? Roald Dahl, a master storyteller, once said:
“And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.”
This quote has been my gentle reminder that life’s greatest treasures aren’t always where we expect them to be. They’re hidden in plain sight, waiting for us to notice them. So how do we that? How do we see the magic in the mundane?
The first suggestion is my favorite. Oh, and by the way, if anything I'm suggesting in this post doesn't mesh with you, it's OK. Don't try to force it to mesh and instead, let the suggestions serve as a catalyst to find things that will work for you.
OK, now back to the first suggestion...
Cultivate Curiosity Curiosity is the key to seeing that world filled with wonder and awe. Ask questions, explore, and let your imagination loose. When was the last time you paid attention to the complexity of a spider’s web or the vibrant colors of a sunset? Neuroscience tells us that engaging in such everyday mindfulness can lead to improved memory recall, because noticing the positive details helps to encode memories into our brains for quicker recall. And that quicker recall of those positive moments creates better feelings.
Look For Beauty in the Ordinary Beauty is everywhere - in the laughter of a loved one, the chirping of the birds, or the smell of freshly brewed coffee (my personal fav). Take a moment to appreciate the simple things that surround you, and you’ll find that they’re not so ordinary after all. And by the way, finding beauty in the ordinary can activate relaxation responses in the brain, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm. How cool is that?
Believe in Possibilities Magic isn’t just in fairy tales; it’s that spark of possibility when we think of what we want most. When you believe in your ability to achieve the extraordinary, you’ll start to see opportunities where others see obstacles. And to do just that, think of all the things you've done in the past that worked in your favor. That evidence serves as a way to calm the nervous system when you're about to take steps towards a desired outcome. And a calm brain and nervous system give us the space for innovative thinking and problem-solving.
Live in the Moment The present is where the magic happens. Instead of ruminating on some past situation or worrying about something that has yet to happen (and may not), plant yourself in the moment. The present is also where stress reduction occurs, as the brain’s relaxation responses are most active when we are fully engaged in the moment. And what helps to do that; engage your senses. What do you see, smell, hear, feel, and taste right now?
As we start out on this path of transforming our mindset to see the magic, it's my hope that you see the world with glittering eyes. Magic is everywhere (even in the mundane) and I don't want you to miss out on any of that sparkle. ✨
Consider this blog post your special invitation to slow down and see life like a child would - through the eyes of curiosity, wonder, and amazement. After all, the world is full of hidden wonders, just waiting to be discovered by those willing to believe in a little magic. Are you ready to find see some?