Introduction
Hi, I’m Max – Personal Development Strategist.
In a world dominated by technology and constant stimulation, many of us have become disconnected from the simple act of being. We rush from one high to the next, from one distraction to another, without realizing that life is happening in the present—right now. One of the most profound insights I’ve received from my own coach is this: “Life is about what you do next.” There’s a brilliant simplicity in this statement, one that reminds us that most of life is spent in the ordinary, in the mundane.
We tend to define our lives by the high and low points—falling in love, heartbreak, achievements, failures. Yet, as George Leonard highlights in his book Mastery, much of life is lived on the plateau. It’s in these in-between moments where we spend most of our days. Learning to appreciate and embrace these ordinary moments is key to living a fulfilling life.
Today’s reading will explore three insights as to why learning to love the mundane is one of the most powerful shifts you can make.
1) 90% of Life Is Spent in the Mundane
When we look back on our lives, we tend to remember the peaks and valleys—the highest joys and deepest sorrows. But the truth is that the vast majority of our lives are spent somewhere in between. The small, everyday moments—the drive to work, preparing a meal, sitting quietly—are the substance of our lives. Yet, many of us reject these moments, always seeking the next thrill, the next burst of excitement or stimulation. We rush through our days, chasing the next high, whether it’s through achievement, food, technology, or otherwise.
But what if, instead of rejecting the mundane, we embraced it? Right now, as you read this article, chances are you’re not experiencing some intense emotional high, and I hope not a low. But can you pause and appreciate the simplicity of this moment? Can you find value in the present, without needing it to be more than what it is?
2) Space for Insight Is Only Found in the Present
Those small, seemingly insignificant moments—taking a shower, walking through nature, or sitting quietly—are often where our most profound insights arise. I’ve written more in depth about this in the article ‘Why Solitude Is Essential For Personal Growth’, but really think about it: insights don’t usually come when we’re in the midst of emotional extremes, whether in deep sorrow or ecstatic joy. They come in the quiet, mundane moments when we’re fully present, when our minds are still.
By learning to embrace the simplicity of the present moment, we create space for these insights to emerge. But when we rush through life, constantly seeking the next distraction or high, we miss out on these moments of clarity. Slowing down, being present in the now, is what allows deeper understanding and insight to surface.
3) Your Taste Will Start to Change
I’ve seen this time and time again in my experience with meditation retreats, especially the longer ones, like 10-day or 12-day silent retreats. At first, it’s hell. Our brains are detoxing from the constant dopamine hits we’ve been used to. There’s discomfort, restlessness, and a craving for stimulation. Monkey mind going bananas. All that stuff. But then something shifts. There’s a leveling out, a settling into the present moment. And finally, something beautiful happens—our taste begins to change.
The mundane begins to reveal its magic. The simple act of breathing, the feeling of warm sunlight, the sound of silence—all these small, previously overlooked aspects of life become profoundly beautiful. As you make a commitment to embrace the present, your desire for constant stimulation will diminish, and you’ll start to see the richness in the ordinary. You’ll find completeness inside yourself, rather than in the external world.
Conclusion
What would happen if you started to find deep appreciation for what you’re currently overlooking? The magic of life doesn’t reside solely in the peaks and valleys but in the quiet, steady rhythm of the everyday. With time, you’ll find that your experience of the mundane begins to change, and you’ll discover a new sense of peace and fulfillment.
Take a moment to pause today, to notice the simplicity of what’s around you, and to realize that this, too, is life.
If today’s reading resonated with you, reach out to me for a conversation here.
Max. Personal Development Strategist.
