How to See Life Through Rose-Colored Glasses

Literally and figuratively.
rose-colored glasses
Everything’s coming up roses.

Literally and figuratively, looking at life through rose-colored glasses makes everything seem more beautiful and vibrant. This old idiom is all about having an optimistic, cheerful mindset, and there’s a reason why it can dramatically improve how we spend our time.

These days, it’s so easy to get jaded over past experiences that didn’t work out. Of course, it’s necessary to acknowledge all of our feelings and not just sweep problems under the rug, but I think there’s magic to this whole rose-colored glasses metaphor. 

What does it mean to see life through rose-colored glasses?

It’s about reframing the way we see things to find beauty in the everyday shuffle. Even the small things like watching the sunrise or sipping a cup of tea. 

Call it “romanticizing your life” or “lucky girl syndrome”, it all ties together. When we think positively, it attracts more goodness to come! There’s logic to this philosophy — and research agrees. 

Read on for five ways to help you see life through rose-colored glasses.

1. Practice Gratitude

I think of gratitude as the best medicine for mental health. The best part? You can access it anytime, anywhere, and there are no side effects. Thinking of the glass half full versus half empty is the best way to visually describe the essence of gratitude. 

It’s more than just saying “thank you”, it’s about truly appreciating what you have and letting that feeling sink in.

One way that helps me live more intentionally is starting and ending the day writing in The Five Minute Journal by Intelligent Change. I love that it gives quick fill-in-the-blank prompts to record what you’re grateful for. 

2. Live In The Present

There aren’t any benefits to dwelling on the past or rushing to the future. If anything, doing so makes you miss out on the here and now. It’s easier said than done, but to fully live in the present, learn to let go of any regrets holding you back.

Time is one thing we can’t control, but we do have a say over how we spend it. What I’ve found is time feels like it slows down when I’m thoughtful about what I do. 

Even something simple like choosing my outfit and looking over my plans the night before lets me feel more relaxed so I’m not rushing when I’m getting ready to leave. 

3. Let Go of Things That No Longer Serve You

Within the past couple of years, I’ve realized I was holding onto a lot of things that no longer fit that chapter of my life anymore. 

It can feel scary to pull away that security blanket but letting go of certain things is necessary to grow. Start by reflecting on your stressors. Is there anything that drains your energy? Evaluate ways on whether you can change it or let it go. 

rose-colored glasses with a backdrop of New York City.
Playing the song “La vie en rose” on repeat.

4. Embrace Self-Growth

Motivating yourself to reach your highest potential ultimately helps improve your well-being. It also allows you to better control your emotions and achieve your goals. And being the best version of yourself lets you be better company to everyone in your life. 

Create a self-care routine, whether it be meditation, spa days, or workouts, so you can avoid burnout and keep going. 

5. Hold Onto Your Sense of Childlike Wonder

As adults, it’s typical to lose that spark of curiosity. Past experiences can make it natural to assume things but learning to unlearn that reaction (within reason) can be a good thing. You know how kids always ask “but why?” It’s that childlike wonder that helps increase vitality and creativity.

Some ways to bring out the inner kid in you: get outside in nature, ride a bike, draw, color, take the time to listen, ask questions, and don’t forget to daydream.

Match Your Mindset

Seeing life through rose-colored glasses is a mindset, and one way to remind you to do so is actually wearing a pair. Plus, they look pretty cool. 

Shop these pink sunnies and stay in your bliss.

Rose-Colored Glasses

This post may use affiliate links. As always, Style Meets Story only offers genuine recommendations.

Sunglasses shown above by Lanvin | Marchon Eyewear.

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Wendy Sy

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