Your Best Stories Are From The Smallest Moments

I remember clocking in for my tutoring job. I organized my belongings, opened my laptop, and checked my appointments. Many of my tutees were returning and had booked a session with me previously, but some were new clients. 

I thought that that day’s shift would be similar to other shifts in tutoring; the students would come in and ask questions, and I would give them suggestions for improvements. However, my perception changed when I worked with one of my newest tutees.

The tutee was working on a presentation for their speech class, and the topic they chose was “The Best Story Ever In My Life.” It was an exciting topic, as many aspects of life can be morphed into stories. Our daily morning commute, moments in the coffee shop, and the friends we make – they can all be considered as stories. 

Unfortunately, as humans, we tend to remember the most negative events and retell them to others instead. 

The tutee told me they spoke to their teacher and would want to retell the class about their horrendous trip to Italy. They recounted many terrible events, such as losing their belongings and facing loneliness throughout the trip. They seemed uncomfortable sharing the story, as it was greatly triggering to them. 

I quickly empathized with the tutee and acknowledged that negative events sometimes occur, even if we do not envision them transpiring. 

The tutee nodded and continued to recount their negative experiences on the trip. They spoke with more emotion as they began to retell more of the events. 

But a story shouldn’t be triggering. Instead, it should make us realize that sometimes, the smallest things in life matter the most. And our actions will always teach us a lesson, whether about ourselves or others. 

Therefore, I asked them, “What did you do today?”

Surprised by the abrupt question, the tutee told me about their morning routine. They described their commute to the college, waiting over 30 minutes for track work to be completed at the subway station. They recounted the little events in great detail, from the beginning until they decided to visit the tutoring department. 

“You just told me a story,” I reaffirmed.

The tutee then laughed, and they seemed to calm down a bit. 

“I guess perhaps I do have to look at the little things in life after all,” they replied. 

When life seems unfair, it’s hard to see how our actions can impact us daily. Our brains tend to dwell on negative emotions to the point where we forget about the small things that bring us joy. 

So perhaps life’s greatest stories aren’t about one’s failures or accomplishments but the day-to-day events. 

So think about the everyday events that bring you joy and matter the most to you. What did you do? How much did you do? And what were your favorite aspects? Every day is different, so it’s best to make the most of it. And share it with others.

Featured image via Bela Cheers on Pexels