Small reminders that make a big difference
This week marks Mental Health Week in Tasmania (4–12 October), with the theme: Appreciate the Little Things.
For me, this theme is deeply personal. I remember a time when life felt overwhelming – deadlines piling up, family responsibilities, and the constant pressure to be “on” all the time. I was so focused on the big goals, the big changes, the big outcomes, that I forgot to notice the small moments that were quietly sustaining me.
One day, rushing between meetings, I caught myself laughing at a simple joke someone made in passing. It stopped me in my tracks. That tiny spark of joy reminded me: these small things are not distractions – they are what keep us going.
Why the Little Things Matter – and What Neuroscience Tells Us
They anchor us in the present.
Our brains are wired to scan for threats and plan for the future – a survival mechanism. But when we intentionally notice small, positive moments, we activate the parasympathetic nervous system. This calms the stress response and brings a sense of safety and presence.
They build resilience.
Small joys and daily wins act like deposits into our mental health bank account. Neuroscience shows that repeated activation of positive emotions – even brief ones – strengthens connections in the brain’s reward system, especially in areas like the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Over time, this helps us better handle stress and setbacks.
They spark connection.
When we say thank you, check in with a colleague, or share a light moment, our brain releases oxytocin – often called the “bonding hormone.” It fosters trust, social connection, and a sense of belonging – all essential to good mental health.
They reduce overwhelm.
Too many demands can overload the brain. But focusing on just one small action – one step, one choice, one good thing – helps the brain regain clarity. This lowers activity in the amygdala (the brain’s alarm center) and makes the next step feel more manageable.
Over the years, I’ve come to see that appreciating the little things isn’t about lowering our ambition – it’s about fueling it. Big change, big growth, and big breakthroughs are made possible by the countless small steps along the way.
So this week – and every week – let’s practice noticing them. They may be small, but they matter more than we think.
💭 A Thought to Sit With
What “small thing” can you pause and appreciate today – in yourself, in your work, or in someone around you?
This Week’s Gentle Shift
Each evening this week, write down one small win or moment of gratitude – no matter how minor it feels.
At the end of the week, look back and notice how those small moments have carried you further than you realised.