The holidays are over and the new year is in full swing. You vowed to be more present this year, but in the chaos and cacophony of life, it’s easy to get distracted. So how can you hang on to the calm and bliss of the time you spent away? Consider setting aside a moment each day to savor the past and present—before moving on to the future.
Savoring as a Practice
In a world perpetually rushing toward the next big thing, savoring is a radical act, particularly for leaders. It’s the art of slowing down, anchoring ourselves in the present moment, and appreciating life’s small yet profound joys. While it sounds simple, savoring is a skill—one that high performers, in particular, often overlook in their quest for productivity and excellence.
So, how can you savor like you mean it? Here are five actionable strategies to help you embrace this life-changing practice:
1. Pause to Notice the Good
The first step in savoring is awareness. Pause during your day to notice something that brings you joy. It could be the aroma of your morning coffee, the warmth of sunlight streaming through a window, or the laughter of a colleague. Acknowledge these moments instead of rushing past them. As discussed in my blog on “The Rise of the Slow Productivity Movement,” this intentional awareness can transform not only your day but also your leadership style.
2. Engage All Your Senses
True savoring involves more than just noticing; it’s about fully experiencing. Take a bite of your favorite dessert, and instead of eating on autopilot, slow down. Taste it. Feel its texture. Smell its aroma. Similarly, when spending time with loved ones, tune into their laughter, facial expressions, and even their presence. Engaging your senses grounds you in the moment and amplifies your joy.
3. Share the Experience
Joy multiplies when shared. Whether it’s recounting a special moment with a friend or posting a picture with thoughtful commentary, sharing your savoring experiences helps solidify them in your memory. In my recent podcast with Action for Happiness, “Digital Mindfulness”, I delve into how sharing meaningful moments online actually fosters deeper relationships and enhances well-being.
4. Practice Gratitude
Gratitude and savoring go hand in hand. End your day by writing down three things you appreciated, no matter how small. The act of gratitude helps you reflect and savor in retrospect, building a positive feedback loop that enriches your overall mindset.
5. Make Time for Micro-Moments
You don’t need a week-long vacation to savor life. Instead, focus on micro-moments: the first sip of tea, the quiet of early morning, or the satisfaction of crossing off a task on your to-do list. The first five minutes of the day are golden–use them wisely!
One of my favorite ways to savor is to use the DayOne app. Every night before bed, I select one picture from my photo library and write a one sentence caption about that image. I love looking back through the pictures as a way reminisce and to practice gratitude.
Why Savoring Matters
Savoring isn’t just about feeling good in the moment; it’s a tool for resilience. Research shows that people who savor regularly have lower levels of stress and higher levels of happiness. For leaders and high achievers, savoring can be a secret weapon—helping you remain grounded and energized amidst life’s inevitable challenges.
As you move through your day, challenge yourself to savor like you mean it. Notice the good, engage your senses, and share your joy. Life’s most meaningful moments often unfold in the margins; savoring ensures we don’t miss them.