Monday, July 30, 2012

One Little Thing


I was chatting with my patient, an architect known for her sensitive adaptations that bring old structures to modern expectations. She tells her clients, who spend a great deal of time obsessing over every detail, that they will be surprised by what will give them the most joy. It will always be one little thing: the sunlight coming through a new window, the feel of a doorknob or the delight in a well-placed bookshelf.

How true! One little thing, seemingly trivial to the big picture, will be the most important. One of my patients decided to give up mayonnaise – and lost 10 pounds. Another person decided that there would be no cigarette smoke in his new car – the first step in eliminating cigarettes from his life. No ‘screens’ (computer, telephone, television) after 9 pm could mean a new reading habit and a better night’s sleep.

On newspaper writer vowed not to buy objects made in China and eliminated much of the junk in her life. She has fewer possessions, nicer things and better karma. A small decision with a big impact.

Having good health is a big goal. Instead of worrying about the big picture, try to change one little thing.

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