Beyond the Sunset
Recently, I was driving home just as the sun was setting. The sky to the west was glowing in that familiar, breathtaking array of fiery oranges and deep reds that only a sunset can bring. But as I headed east, I noticed something even more stunning, the sky was filled with dreamy shades of purple, pink, and blue, almost like a cotton candy wonderland. It was incredible, yet I almost missed it because I had been so focused on the "main event" of the sunset behind me.
This moment made me pause and reflect. How often are we so captivated by the big things that we miss out on the subtle beauty happening all around us? The parts of life that are just as mesmerizing but quieter, waiting to be noticed. We get so wrapped up in life’s grand events that we sometimes overlook the smaller, yet equally beautiful, moments.
We’re often drawn to life’s “sunsets,” the big, obvious events that steal our attention. Celebrations, achievements, and major milestones naturally draw our focus. But there’s so much more to life if we’re willing to expand our view. Life has a way of surrounding us with beauty in the quiet moments, the laughter of a loved one, the way sunlight filters through trees, or even the gentle sound of rain.
When we keep our gaze fixed solely on the big moments, we’re limiting ourselves. We might miss out on the small wonders that can add joy, peace, and gratitude to our daily lives.
So, how do we train ourselves to notice and appreciate these less obvious, yet deeply enriching, moments? Here are a few ways:
Practice Mindful Observation: When you’re out and about, take a moment to pause and look around. Notice the colors, shapes, and textures. Instead of rushing through a task or experience, intentionally slow down to take it all in. This could be as simple as a bird singing or a small flower between the cracks of a sidewalk. These little details can bring a smile to your face and a sense of calm to your day.
Change Your Perspective: Like that cotton candy sky to the east, beauty can often be found where we’re not expecting it. Try looking to the sides or behind you as well as directly ahead. Sometimes a change in perspective is all you need to see something new and awe-inspiring.
Express Gratitude for the Small Things: Take a few seconds each day to appreciate something simple. It could be the taste of your coffee, a friendly smile, or the colors of the sky as the day begins or ends. By cultivating gratitude for these small moments, we enrich our lives and open our eyes to even more beauty.
Be Present in Every Moment: Often, we’re so focused on what's next that we miss what’s happening right now. Being fully present, even if just for a few moments each day, can reveal a world of beauty that we might otherwise miss. Whether it’s during a conversation, a walk, or a quiet moment at home, remind yourself to be here, now.
Seek Wonder in the Ordinary: Rediscover the magic in everyday things. Notice how leaves flutter in the breeze, how shadows shift throughout the day, or the warmth in a loved one’s smile. Life is constantly offering us moments of wonder; we just need to be open to seeing them.
Driving east that day taught me a powerful lesson about seeing beyond the obvious. There’s so much more beauty around us than we often realize. While it’s wonderful to appreciate the grandeur of a sunset, let’s not forget that beauty can be found in all directions, if only we take the time to notice.
The next time you’re out and about, take a few moments to pause and really look around and beyond the sunset. Notice the details, seek beauty in unexpected places, and remind yourself that life’s wonders are all around. Find the magic in the moments we might otherwise miss. Happy Seeking!
xoxox…..Sheryl
You can find Imperfectly Charming wherever you listen to your podcasts. Or click here now to listen to the trailer on Apple, Spotify or my RSS Feed. New episodes drop every Friday.
To order the 6 Step Path to Self-Love Ebook and Journal.
To be in community with like-hearted souls join my small group coaching program.
To join my free private community with live coaching and exclusive content.
You can find me on Instagram or Facebook.
To subscribe to my weekly update and newsletters and receive free the 7 Simple Ways to Elevate Your Life.