by Jen Leech

Created on: July 11, 2009   Last Updated: July 13, 2009

I want you to stop what you are doing, and starting right now, I want you to notice eight beautiful things. Eight things that bring light and joy into your life. There are no wrong answers and there is no time line, or due date for finding these eight things. When I did this myself, I was riding a bus in early spring. The light was flickering through budding leaves. That was the first thing I saw. The sharp green and flickering light, dancing and frolicking in the sun. I stopped, and watched, and found that the next seven things jumped right out at me. A child's smile, a birds song, a moment of stillness in peace.

This exercise is not about what things you notice that bring beauty and joy to your life. The point of this is to practice actively looking for things that will bring happiness into your life. Each and every day we are bombarded with sights and sounds, stresses and timelines. We have such a hard time finding inspiration in our daily lives because our senses are overwhelmed with junk and detractors, leaving us unaware of what is happening around us. The key to finding inspiration and joy is simple, and at the same time takes practice and patience.

Sit still and quiet, free from distractions. Observe yourself. Your breath, your hands. How your body reacts to your thoughts as they go by. Pay close attention. Don't judge or analyze what you are perceiving. All you need to do is watch it. Your breath will slow. As your breath slows your body and mind will relax. Listen. The world around you is waiting for you to discover it. Go to a place where you will not be bombarded by sounds and people, yet will have a sensory stimulus that appeals to you. All you have to do know is wait, watch and listen. Look for eight beautiful things. Eight things that make you smile and feel warmth and light inside.

When your mind is relaxed and your senses are open, you will be in a prime state for inspiration and insight. As you quiet yourself inside, you will be able to listen to your inner self, and your guide. When your mind is not distracted, you will find internal wisdom if you so much as listen. This process is ongoing, so don't be discouraged if this exercise does not elicit the desired effect on the first try. It's not about achieving, it's about the process. The journey outweighs the destination, though the destination is as appealing.

When you find yourself focusing on the negative, or only noticing things that are upsetting to you, stop. Separate yourself from the immediate situation and stop. Still yourself as much as the situation will allow. Then look for eight things that are beautiful. Eight things that brighten up your day. It is the little things, that will make the most difference.

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