How to Live Each Day With a Childlike Heart

Rediscover the wonder in the world around you.

Reviewed by Monica Vilhauer Ph.D.

Remember the first time you tasted ice cream as a child? The pure, unadulterated joy, the excitement that made you shiver with delight? Or perhaps you recall the awe-inspiring moment you first stood at the rim of the Grand Canyon, its vastness stretching beyond comprehension. These are moments of pure presence, where we are fully immersed in the experience, free from the filters of our minds.

Sadly, this sense of wonder often fades as we grow older. We become accustomed to the world around us, our experiences losing their novelty and thrill. The ice cream still tastes good, the Grand Canyon remains magnificent, but the initial magic diminishes. Why does this happen? And how can we reclaim that childlike sense of awe and live each day with renewed appreciation?

The Thief of Wonder: Our Conditioning Mind

The culprit behind this gradual erosion of presence is our own mind. Our memories, while valuable, can also dull our experiences. We've seen it before, tasted it before, felt it before – and so we assume we know what to expect. This familiarity breeds complacency, preventing us from fully experiencing the present moment.

Our minds, with their constant grasping and pushing, create a barrier between us and the world. We cling to pleasant memories and push away unpleasant ones, creating a distorted reality that prevents us from truly seeing things as they are. We become trapped in our thoughts, worries, and judgments, missing out on the beauty and wonder that surrounds us.

Why Presence Matters

Living in the present moment is not just a feel-good concept; it's essential for a truly fulfilling life. Whether you believe this is your only life or that an afterlife awaits, the importance of presence remains the same.

If this is all there is, then savoring each moment, experiencing the world with fresh eyes, becomes even more crucial. We won't look back and cherish our achievements or possessions; we'll remember the moments of joy, connection, and wonder.

For those who believe in a higher power, imagine a loving parent overjoyed by their child's happiness. Wouldn't the greatest gift we could offer be a life well-lived, filled with appreciation and joy? A life where we embrace each day with a childlike heart, finding delight in the simplest things, is a testament to the beauty of creation.

Cultivating a Childlike Heart

The good news is that we can reclaim this sense of wonder. We can learn to shed the filters of our conditioning and experience the world anew. Here are a few ways to cultivate a childlike heart:

• Awareness: Recognize that your mind is constantly pulling you away from the present moment. Become aware of your thoughts and judgments without getting carried away by them.
• Look with Fresh Eyes: Make a conscious effort to truly see the world around you. Pay attention to details you may have overlooked before. Observe the intricate patterns on a leaf, the way the sunlight dances on water, the expressions on people's faces.
• Engage Your Senses: Savor the taste of your food, feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, listen to the sounds of nature. Immerse yourself fully in your sensory experiences.
• Practice Curiosity: Approach each moment with a sense of open curiosity, like a child exploring the world for the first time. Ask questions, explore new perspectives, and be open to surprises.
• Cultivate Gratitude: Appreciate the simple things in life. Express gratitude for the beauty around you, the people in your life, and the experiences you have.

Simple Techniques for Everyday Presence

Integrating practices into your daily routine can help you stay present:

• Set Reminders: Use your phone or watch to set reminders throughout the day to "be present" or "look around." When the reminder goes off, take a moment to pause, breathe, and observe your surroundings with fresh eyes.
• Use a Keyword: Choose a keyword like "attention" or "present" and repeat it to yourself throughout the day. Whenever you notice your mind wandering, gently bring it back to the present moment with your keyword.
• Mindful Walking: Transform your daily walks into opportunities for mindful exploration. Pay attention to the rhythm of your steps, the sensations in your body, and the sights and sounds around you.

A Life Worth Living

Living with a childlike heart is not about being naive or irresponsible; it's about approaching life with a sense of openness, curiosity, and wonder. It's about appreciating the beauty in the ordinary and finding joy in the present moment.

Whether you believe in God or not, cultivating a childlike heart is a gift you give yourself. It's a way to live a richer, more fulfilling life, filled with moments of awe, joy, and connection. As you embrace this way of being, you'll find that each day becomes an adventure, filled with endless possibilities for discovery and delight.