"Instructions for living a life: Pay attention. Be astonished..." — Mary Oliver
Instructions for living a life: Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it.
What This Quote Means
Being fully present in each moment is the gateway to a richer, more meaningful life.
About Mary Oliver
Mary Oliver was a Pulitzer Prize-winning American poet known for her clear, accessible poems about nature and the spiritual world.
Mary Oliver (1935-2019) was a poet who found spiritual truth in close observation of the natural world and shared it in clear, luminous verse.
How to Apply This Wisdom
Mindful breathing
Take three conscious breaths before starting any new activity.
Single-tasking
Do one thing at a time with full attention.
Body awareness
Check in with your physical sensations several times throughout the day.
Reflection Questions
- How present am I in my daily activities?
- What am I missing by not paying full attention?
- When do I feel most fully alive and aware?
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