Mencius said that “Great is the human who has not lost his childlike heart.” This truly means that we need to bottle a child’s sense of wonder, curiosity, and excitement or the everyday day things and apply it to our own lives. We’ve compiled a list of traits and ideas of how to be more childlike, and how it will assist you in your life.
Mindfulness and Perspective-Children are totally engrossed in the moment and mindful of their surroundings. They’re easily mesmerized by a colorful rainbow during a spring storm or a brand new puppy. If we look at the world through these lenses of awe, we may approach life differently. We learn to live it to the fullest with no regrets, even if it means delaying a phone call to skip through the rain with your kid and see the rainbow.
Curiosity- Young children ask 1000 questions and always are curious about how new things constantly. If we approach our adult lives with wonder and curiosity, we won’t approach it with such a defeated, Why me?” attitude. We’ll learn what is important in our life and how to open our hearts and appreciate the present.
Excitement- Children become excited about any new activity from learning to ride their bike to seeing a caterpillar become a butterfly. It’s new to them. If adults brought that same excitement and energy to our career and personal goals, we’d be so much more productive. So often, we’re running on auto-pilot, we don’t take the time to get excited about much of anything.
Playfulness and Creativity-We used to play as kids so why we do shut that part of us out now. Take time to be creative and play, whether it’s to draw in a coloring book, build a block tower with your children, or bake some cookies. Another idea to call some of your friends and get together for no reason but to play some old-fashioned board games or visit an amusement park. It’s so important to schedule fun in your life.
Persistence- Children never give up. If they want something, they’ll nag you constantly until you give in to shut them up. Many of them are natural-born negotiators, and we laugh at their antics. However, as adults we need to keep that persistence so we don’t give up on our dreams and goals.
Forgiveness-Most children let go of minor grievances easily, such as an argument with a sibling or a playground incident. However, we as adults often hold grudges whether it’s against others or ourselves. We need to let go of the small stuff and move on to happier times.
These traits will help you find your inner child. If you need more assistance, please contact me at (510) 949-8668.
