Life has a funny way of making us overlook the simple, yet profound things. And sometimes, as psychology suggests, we take these things for granted.

Taking something for granted means not fully appreciating its value. And often, it’s not until we lose these things that we realize their true worth.

As a field, psychology offers us some insights into what we should never undervalue in life. From relationships to health and even the air we breathe – there’s a list of things that deserve more appreciation than we usually give them.

In this piece, I’m going to share with you 9 things you should never take for granted, according to psychology. Let’s dive in and cultivate some gratitude together.

1) The power of good health

It’s often said that health is wealth, and psychology supports this notion.

We tend to take our health for granted, especially when we’re young and full of energy. It’s easy to forget how much we rely on our bodies to do the things we love until we get a cold, sprain an ankle or worse.

According to psychology, appreciating our health and taking care of it can significantly improve our overall wellbeing. Our physical health impacts our mental state, and vice versa.

So, before you skip that workout or reach for junk food, remember to value your health. It’s a gift that keeps on giving – but only as long as we don’t take it for granted.

2) The comfort of a safe and secure home

I once spent a few months backpacking across unfamiliar countries. While the excitement and adventure were thrilling, there were times when I missed the comfort and security of my own home.

Sure, I was seeing awe-inspiring sights and meeting fascinating people, but when it rained heavily one night and I found myself in a leaky tent, I couldn’t help but think of my cozy room back home.

After that trip, I realized how much we take for granted the safety and comfort our homes provide. They’re our personal sanctuaries from the world’s chaos, filled with familiar sights, scents, and sounds.

Psychology tells us that our homes play a huge role in shaping our mental health. It’s where we rest, recharge, and spend time with loved ones. So don’t underestimate the value of a safe and secure home. It’s more than just a roof over your head; it’s your very own refuge.

3) Relationships and social connections

In our fast-paced, digital world, it’s easy to overlook the importance of genuine human connections. We often get so caught up in our own lives that we forget to appreciate the people around us.

But did you know that social connection is one of the main factors contributing to overall happiness? A study from Harvard, which ran for nearly 80 years, found that close relationships are what keep people happy throughout their lives.

These connections don’t have to be numerous, just meaningful. It’s about quality over quantity. So, cherish your relationships, nurture them, and never take them for granted. They’re one of life’s greatest sources of joy and fulfillment.

4) Access to clean water and food

Turn on the tap, clean water flows. Open the fridge, there’s food. These everyday conveniences are such an integral part of our lives that we barely give them a second thought.

However, the reality is that millions around the world still struggle for these basic necessities. According to the World Health Organization, over 2.2 billion people lack access to a safe drinking water service. Similarly, food security is a major concern in many parts of the world. 

These stark figures serve as a reminder of how fortunate we are to have regular access to clean water and food. It’s something that we should never take for granted. Instead, we should appreciate it and strive to be more conscious of our consumption habits.

5) The joy of learning

From the moment we’re born, we’re learning. Whether it’s figuring out how to walk as a toddler or mastering a new language as an adult, we’re constantly acquiring new skills and knowledge.

Yet, in the hustle and bustle of life, we often overlook the joy that learning can bring. It’s easy to view learning as a chore or an obligation, especially when it’s tied to work or school.

But psychology suggests that lifelong learning can greatly enhance our lives. It keeps our minds sharp, opens up new opportunities, and even helps combat cognitive decline in later life.

So, whether it’s picking up a new hobby or reading a book on a subject you love, never take the joy of learning for granted. It’s a gift that keeps on giving – at every stage of life.

6) The gift of time

Time is one of those things we often wish we had more of. We’re all given the same 24 hours each day, but it never seems to be enough. We rush through our days, often failing to appreciate the present moment.

But here’s the thing – time is a gift that shouldn’t be taken for granted. Each second that ticks by is a moment of life that we’ll never get back.

You see, time is more than just hours on a clock or days on a calendar. It’s shared laughter with loved ones, it’s quiet moments of reflection, it’s opportunities to learn and grow.

So let’s make a pact to not take time for granted. To savor the present moment, to make the most of our days, and to cherish each precious second we’re given. Because as the saying goes, “Time waits for no man.” And it’s up to us to make it count.

7) The ability to see, hear, and touch

I remember waking up one day with a stinging sensation in my eyes. I brushed it off as lack of sleep and continued with my day. But the stinging persisted and by evening, my vision was blurry. It was a terrifying experience and I rushed to the eye doctor, who diagnosed me with a minor infection and prescribed some medication.

Those few hours of impaired vision made me realize how much I took my senses for granted. Thankfully, my sight returned to normal after a few days, but the lesson stuck with me.

Our senses – sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste – are incredible gifts. They enable us to perceive and interact with the world around us. They bring color to our lives, allow us to enjoy music, savor food, feel a warm hug.

Yet, we hardly ever stop to appreciate these abilities until we face the threat of losing them. So let’s not wait for such a wake-up call. Let’s acknowledge and appreciate these wonderful gifts every single day.

8) The beauty of nature

Have you ever stopped to appreciate the beauty of a sunset, or the calmness of a forest, or the rhythmic sound of ocean waves? Nature is a magnificent spectacle that we often overlook in our busy lives.

But it’s more than just a pretty sight. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, increase happiness, and improve physical health. It has a way of grounding us, reminding us of our place in the grand scheme of things.

Sadly, in our concrete jungles, we often forget to appreciate nature’s beauty. We pass by trees without noticing their changing leaves, we ignore the sound of birds chirping outside our windows.

So take a moment to step outside, feel the sun on your face, breathe in the fresh air. Don’t take for granted the beauty and benefits nature offers us. It’s a treasure that deserves our appreciation and protection.

9) The gift of life itself

At its core, life is a precious gift. It’s the canvas upon which we paint our dreams and experiences. It’s filled with highs and lows, love and loss, triumphs and trials.

Yet, amidst the daily grind, we often forget to appreciate life itself. We get so caught up in chasing success or avoiding failure that we forget to live.

Every breath is a miracle. Every day is a new opportunity to grow, to love, to learn, to contribute.

So let’s not take life for granted. Let’s cherish it, in all its beauty and imperfection. Because in the end, the fact that we’re alive is the greatest gift of all.