Savoring the good stuff
Eudaimonic Resources
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Stress & Anxiety
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WHAT
Savoring is about how we attend to, appreciate, and enhance the positive experiences in our lives. According to social scientists Fred Bryant & Joseph Veroff, savoring can be done in the past, present and future: we can anticipate positive events, intensify and prolong our enjoyment of a current experience, and reminisce about an experience to rekindle positive emotions.
WHY
Most of us find ourselves in a hectic, intense and always ‘on’ world. Most of us find ourselves in a hectic, intense and always ‘on’ world. Many of us continue to exceed our mental and physical limits as we navigate the challenges of working from home with a bustling family and blurred boundaries that fail to differentiate between our work and personal life. Savoring can help us slow down and dial up the good stuff to not just survive, but even thrive. Research indicates that intentional savoring enhances our well-being and buffers us against stress from negative events. It exposes us to greater positive emotion, which has been shown to broaden and build our physical and psychological resources.
HOW I CAN USE THIS
Savoring the Past
Bask in, celebrate, and be proud of your accomplishments - especially after you’ve received praise and recognition.
Intentionally recall specific positive memories from your past.
Think about people who have helped you along the way and express gratitude to them.
Savoring the Present
Sharpen your senses by mindfully eating a meal to truly enjoy the flavors and textures of your food.
Lose yourself in the wonder of an awe-inspiring experience like a sunset or an exceptional piece of art.
Try the “three good things” exercise to practice gratitude here and now.
Laugh, be joyous, and express your positive emotions with others; emotions are contagious.
Savoring the Future
Journal about a handful of positive things that could reasonably happen for you tomorrow.
Visit your “best possible self” in a future when you are thriving and everything is as good as it could get.
Or if you’re just trying to survive this crazy period, time travel to the day when it’s over and anticipate what you’d be able to do.
HOW I CAN HELP OTHERS
When it seems appropriate, ask people around you about their positive experiences. Actively listen and respond in ways that help them savor. Try starting a meeting or conversation by asking one of these questions:
What’s something you’re really proud of?
What’s something you’re grateful for right now?
What are you most looking forward to in the next week?