What is your favorite moment, the best part of your day? When so many of us live busy, busy lives, arriving at our favorite, best part of the day can be like arriving at an oasis in the middle of the desert. It makes us smile, take a deep breath, and let go of all the stress of the day.
At the beginning of the lockdown I started walking every day on the towpath near where I live. At first it was a kind of personal diary, I would take pictures of the sunrise, beautiful landscapes, birds, wild flowers, and then I would post them on social media. Over the weeks it has become a treasured and better part of the day for me. And others seem to enjoy it too.
Leaving early in the morning means there are usually very few walkers, runners and cyclists. It’s lovely to sometimes exchange pleasantries with familiar faces, or at other times to have the towpath all to myself. And an early hike means I can manage the time to avoid really wet weather, but I can also adjust to the other demands of my life. My walk is the motivation to get up and have some personal time, before starting the day off right.
– Early risers often rave about the idea of going to bed early so they can wake up and have time to meditate or get some fresh air before starting their day off right. For them, early morning is the best time of the day. An early morning run, bike ride or visit to the gym gets their circulation going, prepares them for the day and gives them personal time to start the day in a positive way.
– Similarly, breaks throughout the day can be special moments, providing the incentive to work and earn that reward. Going out for a drink, perhaps catching up with friends or colleagues can be a nice interlude during the day. It’s nice to be able to look forward to some time when you can reconnect with others or enjoy some quiet time.
– In the midst of a difficult, complex or stressful time, knowing that you are due a breather can be a relief, provide a breather and be the best part of the day. At such times, you can pause, relax, ground yourself, perhaps with some food or drink, or take a walk in the fresh air. That cup of tea, that piece of fruit, a few minutes with your eyes closed while listening to music can offer an opportunity to reflect, clear your mind, and then come back feeling refreshed, stronger, and ready to get back on track.
– Is lunch expected as a significant mid-day marker, a time to sit down, take a proper break, and eat something tasty and nutritious? Maybe include time to read, take a short walk, and enjoy doing something for yourself instead of just pausing while you run around town shopping and strolling.
– For others, the afternoon is the best part of the day. There’s the satisfaction of knowing that the day’s tasks are over for now. The ride home can be used as an opportunity to relax, reflect on the night ahead, and look forward to seeing family, friends, or just relaxing by yourself.
– Spending the afternoons with the children, being there for bath time or reading them a bedtime story is often precious, very precious time. Dinner, cooking, walking the dog, and feeling relaxed and satisfied when a busy day comes to a close is easily the best part of the day for many. All contributing to a ‘gathering at the end of the day’ experience.
– Busy people often relax and enjoy the time when their children are tucked into bed, when they can relax with a drink, watch TV or spend some free time with their partner or friends. The prospect of an evening drink, a conversation, a leisurely bath while they close the door, kick off their shoes, and relax is understandably the best part of their day.
For many of us there will be elements from each of these different times that intermittently make us relax, smile and feel that life is good. They can easily contribute to being seen as the best part of the day. What is your favorite?
