This week, as part of our regular assembly and across our Junior School, we have been discussing the Character Strength of “Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence”, and how it can positively impact our lives.
Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence is a character strength that involves noticing and valuing the beauty, wonder, and skillfulness in the world around us. This strength encourages us to find joy in both the natural world and in human-made creations, appreciating the smallest details that often go unnoticed. From the colours of a sunset to the intricate craftsmanship of a piece of art, this strength helps us develop a sense of awe and gratitude for the world we live in.
Benefits for Students and Families
Cultivating the strength of Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence offers a wide range of benefits for individuals of all ages:
- Positive Perspective: Focusing on beauty and excellence helps shift our perspective towards the positive aspects of life, which can improve our mood and overall outlook.
- Enhanced Mindfulness: This strength encourages mindfulness by urging us to be present in the moment and fully engage with our surroundings.
- Gratitude: Appreciating beauty and excellence fosters a sense of gratitude, reminding us of the wonderful experiences and creations that enrich our lives.
- Stress Reduction: Taking the time to notice and appreciate beauty can provide a brief respite from the stressors of everyday life.
Incorporating this Strength in Daily Life
Here are some simple ways students and families can incorporate the strength of Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence into their routines:
- Nature Walks: Go for a walk in nature and encourage your child to notice the colours, textures, and sounds around them. Discuss what aspects of nature they find beautiful.
- Art and Creativity: Engage in creative activities together, such as drawing, painting, or crafting. Discuss the effort and skill put into each creation.
- Cultural Exploration: Explore different forms of art, music, and literature from around the world. Discuss what makes each piece unique and worthy of appreciation.
- Mindful Moments: Set aside a few minutes each day to simply observe the world around you. Encourage your child to notice something beautiful or excellent that they might have overlooked before.
- Gratitude Journal: Start a family gratitude journal where everyone can jot down moments of beauty and excellence they encountered during the day.
As we navigate through our busy lives, the strength of Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence serves as a reminder to slow down and savour the world’s beauty. By embracing this character strength, we can instil a sense of wonder, gratitude, and mindfulness that contribute to our overall wellbeing.
Here’s to a month filled with moments of beauty and excellence for all of us!
