How to Find Real Joy Without Chasing Big Moments
Recently, I found myself in a small haven of peace—a Japanese garden in Canberra, right by the river. The place is stunning, with its calm waters and perfectly maintained paths. I checked my map to see exactly where I was: Lenox Garden, not far from the Science Museum. There’s also the Beijing Garden nearby, and both are truly beautiful. I even wandered through what I thought was another Japanese garden, but it turned out to be Chinese. Still, the feeling was the same: pure wonder.
These places are more than just pretty spots. They’re reminders of what really matters. Today, I want to talk about how to live in a way that cuts out mental clutter—the stress and worries that weigh us down and make our days heavier than they need to be.
Clearing Mental Space
We all have things that take up space in our minds. Tasks, worries, endless to-do lists. These things can drag us down and make life feel like a burden. The key, I’ve found, is to break up your day and rebuild it on solid ground. If you’re like me, you might feel stressed because you’re always thinking about what needs to be done. It eats up your mental space.
So, what can you do? Sometimes, it’s as simple as taking a walk, getting some fresh air, and letting yourself recharge. That’s what I did today, and it made all the difference. Canberra is a special city—very quiet, almost empty at times. The streets are wide, clean, and everything is well cared for. Even the gardens are spotless. It’s not just the lack of people that makes it peaceful; it’s the care that goes into every corner.
The Value of Slowing Down
Life isn’t meant to be nonstop. We need moments to slow down, rest, and think about what we actually enjoy. Too often, we rush from morning to night without ever asking ourselves if we like the life we’re living. Maybe this isn’t your style of life. Maybe you need something different. Life is short—much shorter than we think. Living well and helping others live better is what counts.
If you’re always complaining or stuck in a place that doesn’t suit you, you’ll only end up frustrated. Why stay somewhere that goes against your values or your happiness? If you do, you’ll always suffer. Sometimes, it’s as simple as moving on, trying something new, or just taking a break to see things differently.
Finding Beauty in Small Things
As I sat in the garden, I noticed a huge tree that was no longer there—just its massive roots left behind. It made me a bit sad, thinking about how beautiful it must have been. Most of the trees around me are small, but the space is still carefully arranged. There are benches by the river where you can sit and just take in the view. It’s an idyllic place, perfect for enjoying the moment.
That’s what I want for you: to have moments of well-being, to really see the beauty around you. Sometimes, we don’t take enough time to be present, to rest, and to simply be happy to exist. Life has so much to offer, right where you are. Even if you’re not working on some huge project or running a company worth millions, you can still enjoy the small things—moments with your partner, your family, or friends.
The Simple Life Is Enough
I love sharing these thoughts with you because I want you to realize that life is much simpler than we think. You can live well with very little. You don’t need much to be happy.
Happiness is not having what you want, but wanting what you have.
— Rabbi Hyman Schachtel
Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax.
— Mark Black
Key Takeaways
- Take time to slow down and enjoy the present.
- Clear your mind by breaking up your day and making space for rest.
- Appreciate small moments and simple pleasures.
- Don’t stay in places or situations that don’t suit you.
- Life is shorter than we think—make it count.
Action Steps
- Go for a walk in a peaceful place.
- Take a moment to sit and do nothing but enjoy your surroundings.
- Ask yourself if your current lifestyle truly makes you happy.
- Make small changes to reduce your mental load.
Reflection
Are you really living the life you want, or just rushing through your days? What small change could you make today to enjoy the present more?
Pierre-Henry Soria
#Finding Joy #Living in the Present #Mental Clarity #Mindfulness #Self-Transcendence #Simple Pleasures #Tasks