Discovering YOU Magazine January 2026 Issue | Page 44

THE SPIRIT IN YOU

Beattie

6) They know how to take pleasure in what they do

These grateful and content people have another secret to show us. They can find the good in whatever they do and take pleasure in it. Much of life involves doing routine things. So the people who can take pleasure in the simple things are the lucky ones. But by knowing this, we can create our own luck!

Through adopting a mindset of gratitude and contentment, we open ourselves up to a world of pleasure from the everyday. Whether it’s savoring the first sip of morning tea or coffee, relishing the warmth of the sun on our skin during a walk, or finding joy in completing mundane tasks, the content people remind us that happiness can be found in the simplest of moments.

Need more inspiration? Here are some little things you can take pleasure in:

Watching the sunrise/sunset

Feeling the warmth of a hug

Sharing a smile with a stranger

Walking barefoot on soft grass

Singing along to your favorite song

Appreciating a beautiful flower

Gazing at the starry night sky

Patting a pet

Holding hands with a loved one

Listening to raindrops

Biting into a juicy, ripe fruit

Receiving a heartfelt compliment

Watching a heartwarming movie or show

Enjoying a delicious home-cooked meal.

So many good things to enjoy!

7) They have a sense of purpose

Enjoying life’s simple pleasures is

wonderful, but there’s one more trait

that content people usually have – knowing their purpose. That might sound intimidating, but like many of the points here, your purpose doesn’t have to be some life-changing world-saving thing. Don’t get me wrong, big goals can be the driving force for many people. But the simple things can work too.

As an existential well-being coach, when people are depressed, one of the things I will look at is if they have a sense of purpose in their life. When we look at the ‘blue zones’ or places in the world where people tend to live to over 100, we see that this is one of the things that increase longevity and well-being. Do you long for a sense of purpose? Here are some ideas that could help you to become a genuinely content person.

Volunteering

Acts of kindness

Mentoring or teaching

Caring for pets or nature

Supporting a cause

Creating art or handcrafts

Active listening

Setting and achieving personal goals

Acts of gratitude

Supporting family and friends

If you can find a sense of purpose in your life, you can enjoy increased fulfillment.

The secrets of being genuinely content – the takeaway

Being genuinely content means keeping it real, embracing self-compassion, and accepting oneself and others. Expressing gratitude for the little things and finding joy in everyday moments are essential personality traits. Having a simple sense of purpose adds valuable meaning to life, which increases contentment. If you want to be like these genuinely content people, then stay true to yourself and appreciate life’s blessings!