As the darkness of the winter months descends, I am reminded of small comforts. The easy days of summer are long gone and the simple joys within my four walls are waiting to be rediscovered. The light of candles. The warmth of the fire. A stack of interesting books. Flannel sheets. Hot baths. Beautiful music. An endless supply of hot chocolate and fragrant tea.
Comfort at a basic level.
Small comforts are important in so many ways. They engage the senses. They create a sense of well-being. They offer a momentary respite from the must-do’s and the should-do’s.
By ensuring that small comforts are part of our lives, we are actively engaged in self-care. Who knows better than you what you want or need?
Self-care pays off in big ways. We know for sure that we are being heard and acknowledged. We feel safe, comfortable, and content. And from this place, our minds are free to slip into ease. A calm state where we can rest and from which ideas can spring.
Small comforts are essential not only at home but also in the work environment – whether that is an office in a spare bedroom or in a skyscraper downtown. A chair that’s actually comfortable. The perfect coffee cup. A picture that delights and inspires. A lamp that sheds its light where it is needed most. A fragrant plant. A beautiful notebook just waiting to be filled with ideas.
Think of these small comforts as your team members. To remind you that you matter and are cared for. To support your creativity. To help you create your best work. Your best life.
Small comforts. Big results.
Check out your environment. Where could you add a small comfort or two?
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This morning I had this thought, “I’m going to prepare my office for the next phase. I don’t even need to know what that is yet, just that’s it’s near.” So this post couldn’t have been more timely! I’ve been looking around my office, wondering what I could let go of or pass on, what else might I add that would give me a greater experience of comfort (and ease).
Not sure yet what this will look like, but stay tuned!
Sandi Amorim recently posted..Experiment in Trust
That just gives me goosebumps! I can’t wait to find out what shows up for you but I bet it will be delicious.
I forget this so often. Between my 3 year old, her dad (who I’m still good friends with), my college classes, and the 21 girls that work for me, I forget to schedule time for myself.
Recently, I’ve been dealing with a terrible writer’s block for weeks. Today Riley was gone and I just sat down on the couch. I turned on the tv for the first time in ages and magically the words started flowing. Before I knew it, I had close to 20 hand written pages for 2 different projects. After that and reading your post, I think I’m going to take Friday off. We were planning on going out to dinner so I think it’s a good day for it.
Erica Cosminsky recently posted..Zen To Done- Organization that Works
Hi Erica – You have a ton on your plate! Yes, take care of yourself … take the day off and enjoy. Spend a little time enjoying your favorite small comforts. You definitely deserve it!