Why We Should All Be More Like Chickens: The Truth Hurts!

Every morning, while we’re fumbling for coffee and half convincing ourselves to face the day, chickens are already out there scratching the soil with purpose.  They don’t wake up stressing over to-do lists.  They wake up ready to see what’s new!  A patch of clover, a wriggly worm, a tasty seed, they live like treasure hunters, finding joy in the small discoveries.  What if we all started our days like that?  With curiosity, instead of dread.

Chickens are also masters of community.  Alone, a hen is vulnerable, cautious, and quiet.  Go ahead and put her with her flock, and suddenly she’s bold.  She has backup, friendship, and even a few gossipy clucks to share.  Life reminds us over and over: we’re not meant to do it all alone.  The flock makes us stronger, safer, and braver.

Boundaries?  Oh, chickens wrote the book.  If a hawk even thinks about circling overhead, the alarm call goes out loud and clear.  No hesitation, no shrinking back.  Chickens don’t worry if they’re being “too much.”  They speak up when something threatens their peace.  That’s a reminder we could all use, sometimes the most loving thing you can do is protect your own space and your people.

And let’s talk about rest.  Chickens unapologetically flop into the dirt for a dust bath, wings stretched wide, eyes closed in bliss.  It looks funny, but it’s vital.  That dust bath isn’t laziness, it’s maintenance, both physical and mental.  Rest isn’t optional for them, and it shouldn’t be for us either.  Imagine what would happen if we treated naps, quiet time, or small rituals as non-negotiable instead of guilty pleasures.

Then there’s the joy factor.  Chickens celebrate little victories with all the enthusiasm of a parade.  Found a bug?  Jackpot.  Sunbeam on the coop floor?  Best nap ever.  A shiny bit of gravel?  Oh, the possibilities.  They teach us that joy doesn’t come from faraway, impossible dreams.  It’s right here in the ordinary moments, if we’re willing to notice.

So maybe the real wisdom is this: life doesn’t have to be complicated.  Be curious.  Stick with your flock.  Speak up when you need to.  Take your dust baths.  And never underestimate the power of finding your own worm.