Good things to look for

Perception is partly dependent on self-defence. When an animal is focused on watching a predator, it can’t afford to spend too much attention on a nice view. We humans are more attuned to watching for threat than admiring the view. Hence anxiety, where we perceive the world as a more dangerous place than it actually is, because we are hard-wired to see danger before beauty.

Here are nine things that we might feel we can’t afford to see, but could probably make more of an effort to look for:

1. The beauty of a view. Wherever we are, there is some angle or colour that we can admire or appreciate.
2. Other people’s kindnesses. We are only fed and clothed because other people have prepared that food and made those clothes.
3. Our own health. Even if we are ill, we still have some ability to breathe, think, and move. That is a gift.
4. Other people’s stories. However difficult our own situation, we can always be curious about other people’s stories, and follow them with interest.
5. Our own caring nature. Whatever battles we are in, we can notice that we care about others, and want them to be OK.
6. A new plan. When we or others voice a wish or a project, we can listen and help it to become a reality.
7. Growth. All the time, plants are growing, and the seasons are happening. We can go outside and watch things develop.
8. Friendliness. When we are anxious, we can miss people smiling at us. If we keep our eyes open, we may notice people waiting to welcome us.
9. Plenty. If we are focused on what is missing, we miss what there is plenty of. We can be grateful for what there is in abundance.

I have only included nine. If you like round numbers, I’m sure you can find one more good thing!