I Evolved and Found Happiness in the Simple Pleasures

Happiness begins when I appreciate what I already have.

I’m sitting at the window enjoying my early morning cup of coffee.

The sun dissolves a morning mist, revealing the forms of a peaceful landscape. I watch as the world around me wakes up. A wave of satisfaction sweeps over me.

I savor the moment.

In my 60s, I savor the simple pleasure of life like never before. Is this the result of wisdom accumulated over the years? Or is it a regular part of the aging process?

When I was younger, I tended to overlook the simple pleasures.

I had big ideas.

I was pursuing big dreams.

I was grabbing at shiny objects that danced in front of my face.

I didn’t have time for anything else.

As I reflect on what kind of person my younger self was, I see how different I am now. Here are a few of the differences I have noticed.

1. My younger self was searching for the meaning of life.

A search filled with angst. As I’ve gotten older, I discovered my purpose in self-actualization, service to others, and spirituality.

2. My younger self was insecure.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become comfortable in my own skin. I like who I am.

I found love and acceptance bring peace. That begins with loving and accepting myself.

3. My younger self acted like pursuing pleasure was my purpose.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found the most satisfying way to live was creating my ideal self and giving him away in service.

4. My younger self used to get upset over anything.

As I’ve gotten older, I realize there is little to get upset about. Most of the wrinkles in life iron themselves out.

5. My younger self let the opinions of others become his reality

As I’ve gotten older, I only care about my opinion of myself

I can hold my head high if my thoughts and behavior align with my deepest values.

6. My younger self traveled the world looking for beauty.

As I’ve gotten older, I realize I am surrounded by beauty wherever I am.

7. My younger self used to lift weights to impress others.

As I’ve gotten older, I exercise for a healthier body and mind

8. My younger self would imagine the worst, stirring up fear.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to see the best outcome and move forward.

I understand I am always walking in either fear or love. I align my thoughts and behavior with love.

9. My younger self wanted to feel important.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found that being a servant is the path to greatness.

10. My younger self validated himself by pursuing success and money.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to validate myself with daily habits that prove what kind of man I am.

So why do I savor the simple pleasures in life?

I found out that satisfaction does not come from outside yourself. Pursuing big goals to impress others never leads to lasting happiness.

Happiness is a byproduct of pursuing my calling, my higher purpose.

We find happiness when we are grateful for what we already have. We express that gratitude with action that aligns with our purpose.