If you still feel joy in these 8 simple things, you’re richer than you know

When I take a deep breath of fresh morning air, I feel alive. When I see a child’s pure, uninhibited laughter, I feel joy.

Ah, the simple pleasures of life.

Yet, in our pursuit of material riches, we often overlook these little moments of happiness. We forget that wealth isn’t just about the size of your bank account.

Some folks, however, haven’t lost sight of this truth. They find wealth in the simplest things – a good book, a hearty laugh, a serene sunset.

What’s their secret?

Well, I’ve noticed that these “rich” individuals typically cherish these 8 simple joys. If you do too, you might just be wealthier than you ever realised.

As an editor and writer here on Expert Editor, I’ve come across countless stories and experiences that prove just this. And today, I’d love to share this perspective with you.

So let’s dive in and discover what makes us truly rich.

1) Appreciation of nature

Nature is a living, breathing masterpiece.

Every sunrise, every wave crashing onto the shore, every leaf rustling in the wind – it’s all a part of a grand symphony that’s being played out every single day. Yet, how often do we stop to listen?

You see, losing ourselves in the beauty of nature isn’t about escaping from reality, it’s about reconnecting with it. It’s about remembering that we’re a part of something much larger than our own individual lives and problems.

And those who truly understand this? They’re some of the richest folks I know.

They find joy in the simplest aspects of nature – a blooming flower, a chirping bird, a beautiful sunset. They’re content just to sit and watch as the world goes about its business.

For them, wealth isn’t about accumulating more and more material possessions. Instead, they find richness in experiences, in moments, in the simple act of being present and appreciating the world around them.

2) Laughter and shared joy

Have you ever laughed so hard that your cheeks hurt and tears streamed down your face? That’s a kind of wealth that’s hard to describe.

I remember a time when I was scrolling through some old family photos with my siblings. There was this one particular picture of us, all grinning, with our faces smeared with birthday cake. Seeing that photo, we burst into laughter, each of us adding to the chorus with our unique laugh.

In that moment, I felt a warmth spread through me, a kind of joy that was infectious, pure, and untainted by any worries or preoccupations. Looking around at my siblings, their eyes sparkling with mirth and nostalgia, I realised that these moments of shared joy were priceless.

It didn’t matter if we didn’t have the fanciest clothes or the latest gadgets. We had each other and the ability to find joy in simple shared memories.

And if you also find wealth in laughter and shared joy, then my friend, you’re richer than you think.

3) Reading a good book

Books are magical portals that transport us to different worlds, introduce us to new characters, and make us think about life in ways we never have before.

And here’s something you might not have thought about – reading is actually one of the few activities that fully engage both the left and right sides of your brain.

The left side is responsible for understanding the language and structure of the text, while the right side ignites our imagination and helps us visualise the story.

So, every time you read a book, you’re not just enjoying a good story; you’re also giving your brain a full workout!

Those who find joy in reading aren’t just enriching their minds; they’re also exercising their brains in a way that very few other activities can match. This goes beyond monetary wealth – it’s an enriching experience that contributes to personal growth and intellectual wealth.

4) Cooking a meal from scratch

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to opt for convenience. Pre-packaged meals and fast food outlets are just a call away. But there’s something incredibly satisfying about preparing a meal from scratch.

Cooking isn’t just about feeding ourselves; it’s an act of love and creativity. Each ingredient you choose, every spice you add, it’s all a part of your unique culinary masterpiece.

And when you sit down to enjoy your creation, there’s a sense of accomplishment, a joy that can’t be replicated by simply ordering in. It’s the pleasure of knowing that you’ve nourished not just your body, but also your soul.

Those who still find joy in this simple act of cooking, they’re nurturing more than just their taste buds. They’re enriching their experiences, their skills, and their appreciation for the simple pleasures in life.

If you’re one of these people, then trust me, you’re richer than you know.

5) A good conversation

I’ve always believed that communication is the key to understanding. A good conversation can be as enriching as reading a good book or watching an enlightening documentary.

I’ve had chats that have opened my mind to new perspectives, challenged my beliefs, and made me a better person. And it doesn’t always have to be a deep or philosophical discussion.

Sometimes, a simple chat with a friend about their day, or a hearty laugh over an inside joke, can bring immense joy.

In our digital age, where texting and social media often replace face-to-face interactions, a meaningful conversation can feel like a luxury. But for those of us who still cherish this simple pleasure, we’re gaining more than just words.

We’re gaining connections, experiences, and memories. We’re cultivating empathy, understanding, and personal growth.

6) Solitude

In a world that’s constantly buzzing with noise and activity, solitude might seem like an odd source of joy. But believe me, it’s a treasure trove for those who know how to embrace it.

Spending time alone isn’t about loneliness; it’s about self-discovery. It’s in those quiet moments that we can truly listen to our thoughts, understand our feelings, and reconnect with ourselves.

It’s when we step away from the crowd and the noise that we can see things from a fresh perspective and gain insights that might otherwise have been drowned out.

Those who can find joy in solitude are not just enriching their minds; they’re also cultivating a deeper understanding of themselves.

So if you’re someone who enjoys your own company, embracing moments of quiet reflection, then know that you possess a richness beyond measure.

7) Helping others

There’s a unique kind of joy that comes from helping others. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, helping an elderly neighbour with their groceries, or simply lending a listening ear to a friend in need – these acts of kindness enrich our lives in ways we can’t quantify.

Helping others isn’t just about making someone else’s day better; it’s about creating a ripple effect of positivity. Your act of kindness might inspire another, and that in turn could inspire even more acts of goodwill.

Those who find joy in helping others are not just enriching their own lives; they’re also making the world a better place, one kind act at a time.

And if you’re someone who finds joy in lending a hand, know that your wealth extends far beyond your own life and touches the lives of those around you.

8) Living in the moment

The past is history, the future a mystery. The present moment, that’s all we truly have.

Living in the moment isn’t about ignoring the past or not planning for the future. It’s about fully immersing yourself in the now, appreciating every sensation, every emotion, every experience as it unfolds.

Those who can find joy in the present moment aren’t just enriching their lives; they’re also cultivating a sense of peace and contentment that no amount of material wealth can buy.

So if you’re someone who can find joy in the simple act of being present, you’re richer than you know.

The true measure of wealth

If you’ve journeyed with me this far, it’s my hope that you’ve come to see that the true measure of wealth extends far beyond monetary boundaries.

True riches lie in the simple joys of life – in a good book, a hearty laugh, a serene sunset, a shared memory, a quiet moment alone, a helping hand, and the conscious act of living in the present.

As the great philosopher Seneca once said, “It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor.”

So if you can still find joy in these simple things, take a moment to appreciate the wealth that you possess. Because in the grand scheme of things, you’re richer than you know.

Rich is not those who have much, but those who need little. Contentment is the greatest form of wealth. So go ahead and cherish these simple joys.

After all, these are the things that make life truly worth living.