BAKING APPRECIATION INTO THE EVERYDAY 

I’m always keeping my eye out for ways to be more present. I now understand the vital importance of steadiness, of responsibility – making your own decisions and acknowledging the small details that add up to a whole heap of joy.

Appreciation, I believe, is a fabulous way of doing this.

I found myself, quite naturally, saying grace before I ate my dinner the other day. It’s now something I will do before each meal. It’s a breath of gratitude before taking in what’s feeding you.

Now, imagine that in your everyday behaviour.

Seeing the plants, the flowers, the trees.

Seeing people smiling, or not, sending out well-wishing thoughts to people.

Chatting with a friend recently, I said “to be selfish is the least selfish thing you can do.” If you’re in a good mood, imagine the effect. If you’re in a bad mood, imagine that effect.

The world needs more joyful, appreciative people. You do it.