Ungrateful people take these 13 simple pleasures for granted

Are you taking these things for granted?

An older man with short white hair is looking thoughtfully out of a window. He is wearing a blue collared shirt. The background is softly blurred, suggesting daylight coming through the window.

Many of us have become so accustomed to life’s simple pleasures that we fail to appreciate them. If you’re guilty of taking these everyday joys for granted, it’s time for a wake-up call.

1. Watching the sunrise.

A woman stands on rocks by the sea, holding a water bottle and gazing at the vibrant sunset. She wears a blue tank top and gray leggings, with a ponytail. The sky is filled with warm hues of orange and yellow.

Getting up early and gazing across a natural landscape as the sun rises above the horizon – what could be more inspirational than that? If you don’t feel positive and energized for the rest of the day after such a beautiful start, perhaps you’re not as appreciative as you thought.

2. Morning tea or coffee.

An elderly woman with short, curly gray hair sits on a sofa holding a large mug, gazing thoughtfully out a window. She is wearing a light blue shirt, and the room is softly lit with a bookshelf in the background.

That first taste of tea or coffee in the morning deserves a lot more credit for how well our days go. Whether it’s herbal or highly caffeinated, it can set you up for the day and help you get into your routine, but only if you let it.

3. Hugging someone you love (if you’re a hugger).

Two women are hugging warmly indoors. One woman, with long blonde hair, is facing away, and the other woman, with short brown hair, is smiling with her eyes closed. They appear to be sharing a comforting or joyful moment.

There are genuine chemicals released when we hug those we love, so why not do it more often if you enjoy it? Hugging is a way of showing love and appreciation, as well as support and unity. Does it make you feel good? And if not, why not?

4. Making and listening to a playlist.

A person with long brown hair is wearing round sunglasses and headphones, looking up towards the sky. They have red lipstick and are standing outside, with a blurred background of a pathway and a river.

Making your own playlist is such an underrated joy, whether it’s cheesy pop for a girls’ night in, something loud and heavy for your gym sessions, or some inspirational songs for hard days. If music doesn’t uplift you, you might want to consider why that is.

5. Making plans with loved ones.

A woman with long, dark hair sits at an outdoor café table, resting her chin on her hand. She wears a red coat and looks thoughtful. In front of her is a dessert glass with whipped cream and a teapot. Her phone is on the table next to her.

Assuming you’re a people person, then knowing that someone you care about wants to make plans to spend more time with you should make you feel good. Making plans is a good way to feel important and involved – are you appreciating it or taking your loved ones for granted?

6. Long walks in the countryside.

A young woman with long brown hair stands in a grassy field. She is wearing a red sweater and looking off to the side with a thoughtful expression, her arms crossed and one hand touching her opposite shoulder. The background features blurred greenery.

Being outside in the fresh air is really good for us, both physically and mentally. Going for a wander can help us reset, escape the stresses in our lives, and have a full refresh. You’ll also see some beautiful plants and animals out in nature. But only if you get out of your head, pay attention and actually appreciate your surroundings.

7. Fresh bedding.

A couple wearing white shirts is lying in bed together. The man has curly hair and facial hair; he is looking at the woman with affection. The woman, with wavy hair, leans her head on the man's shoulder, holding his hand. They are resting against a blue headboard.

Is there a better feeling than sliding into fresh sheets that smell amazing and feel super soft? We don’t think so, but if you’re lacking in gratitude, perhaps you’ll disagree.

8. Belly laughing with a good friend.

Three women enjoying a conversation in a cozy setting, with wine glasses on the table in front of them. One woman, in a yellow sweater, is laughing, while the other two are smiling. Warm lighting creates a relaxed atmosphere.

You know that feeling when you’re laughing so hard it hurts, tears are streaming down your face, and you’ve stopped making any sounds? That! We love that. Do you?

9. Coming home after a trip away.

A man with a beard and short hair, wearing a white t-shirt and black shorts, sits on the edge of a bed with a thoughtful expression. The room is modern with white walls, a large mirror behind him, and soft lighting.

Travelling is wonderful, but so is coming home to your own space – your bed is better than any fancy hotel one and you know exactly how to work your shower. If you don’t feel that moment of bliss when you get into your own bed you might want to question whether you’re ignoring the little things in life.

10. Walking through autumn leaves.

A man holding a black umbrella stands in a park during autumn. He's wearing a camel-colored coat, a scarf, and a burgundy sweater. The trees in the background have fall foliage, and the scene is slightly blurred.

Crunching your way through a path of crispy amber and yellow leaves is so satisfying. Autumn walks should help you reset and really appreciate the nature around you, if you take the time to stop and take it all in, that is.

11. Seeing dogs play together in the park.

A woman with wet hair stands on a sandy beach wrapped in a pink towel, gazing thoughtfully into the distance. The ocean is visible on the left, and a dog can be seen walking in the background. The sky is clear, creating a serene beach setting.

Is there anything purer than seeing dogs running around and chasing each other’s tails? Seeing dogs having fun makes pretty much everyone smile, so if this doesn’t do it for you, you’re likely missing out on the simple pleasures in life.

12. Having a shower or bath after a long day.

A bearded man with dark hair lies in a bathtub filled with water, looking thoughtfully upwards. Only his head and shoulders are visible above the water. The bathtub is white, and the man appears relaxed and contemplative.

Jumping in a hot shower or bath after a day of meetings or stroppy children instantly relieves stress. But too many people take hot water (and quiet moments) for granted. Do you?

13. Ice-cold water on a hot day.

A man in a light gray t-shirt sits at a kitchen counter, drinking a glass of water. On the counter, there's a laptop, a cup of coffee, and a fruit bowl with oranges and apples. The background has kitchen cabinets and a green plant.

Hydration is key on any day, but freezing cold water never tastes as good as it does on a hot summer’s day. Too many people forget to appreciate this simple delight. Not everyone has the pleasure of clean water, let alone ice cold water. Never forget that.