Some people, for the sake of getting a living, forget to live. Discuss.

Enjoying life is akin to taking care of your teeth. It is right in front of your face, but how many mindlessly brush and never floss? The extra step can add sparkle to your smile and even a sense of accomplishment, but it takes time. The philosophy of “a little effort and a lot of observation” can apply to every aspect of life and make the most of what is already there.

Life’s routines, such as work and commitments, keep us grounded, but many may be left feeling there is no room for anything else. When fun is put in motion, it is done with a modicum of guilt and worry. Minds drift to “What is going on back in the ‘real world’?” and “Should I check my phone for anything?” It is survival vs. savor.

There is no magic formula for enjoying life, just like there is no clear definition of happiness. To savor is to start with the little extras. There is no need to chuck it all and move to the Caribbean. Look at that morning coffee. That everyday mug may be perfect with a pour of cream and sugar, but why not sprinkle cinnamon on top? Or chocolate? It will not change what lies underneath but it will add another dimension.

The key to living in a hectic, everyday-is-a-deadline world may be making the most of the tiny choices. According to the Time’s website, psychologist Rich Walker examined more than 500 diaries. He determined people who have different types of experiences are more apt to retain positive feelings than those with less variety in their lives.¹

Sometimes it takes putting the routine aside to make the most of each moment. By paying attention to the details, the cream of life will rise to the top and the enjoyment will filter down and spill over in other aspects of being. The way to live a more fulfilled life is not to deconstruct what is there, but to reconfigure what is.