Repeat What You Know Works!

If you watch kids closely, you’ll see they find absolute enjoyment in repetitious events. They watch the same cartoon over and over, mouthing the words they’ve memorized many times before. Have you ever wondered why?

Our daughter reminded me of this phenomenon this morning when she begged to go to the Seattle Aquarium, yet again. She’s been there so many times that she provides the guided tour through the fish and other swimming sensations for us.

This repetition is enjoyable for a couple reasons: the comfort of knowing what will come next and the sensation of instant gratification because they cannot fail in doing what they already know how to do. It is an immediate accomplishment.

Who among us can say that they don’t have days that a sense of accomplishment and a sense of comfort wouldn’t be welcome? Children’s thought processes can be less complicated because of their simplicity in finding pleasure. Why don’t we follow that concept?

Why not try a simple approach at turning around a bad day. Remember how kids find pleasure in doing something they already do well or do often? Try something that you have found enjoyable in the past. Lose yourself in that moment and let it help your own mood lighten. Feel the satisfaction and pride of doing something well and let that emotion carry into the rest of your day.