In this post: Finding joy in the little things in life even in hard times can be a tough assignment. There’s no way around it. You and I both know that there are times in our lives when things are not going to go your way, that’s a given. Life is truly a steady flow of ups and downs. Here’s a reminder that life still holds moments of joy even in the most unexpected places.
It’s been a few months, the unexpected passing of a beloved family member, coupled with the mounting pressures of daily life has cast a heavy shadow on her heart.
Every day feels like an uphill battle, and the simplest tasks has become a huge struggle. The world seems grey, and my future uncertain.
Even though you might spend most of your time in a normal mental and emotional mindset, this is usually interrupted by the highs of happy times and unfortunately the lows when everything seems to be going wrong.
The thing is, you don’t really think about anything sad or depressing when you’re having the time of your life, right?
But sometimes when extremely really rough times turn up they can be really difficult to handle.
For instance, when we have natural disasters in any part of the world, you have no control over these things and the reality is that people are affected in real serious ways.
Everything that involves fighting through these difficult times is clouded in pain and suffering. That’s just the way these things are, that’s the very nature of it.
Loss, death, isolation, confronting fear in the face of the unknown can completely take away your joy and can affect your mental state and can even lead to depression. But there are things that you can do to keep a positive attitude and even a joyful and positive frame of mind.
What Does It Mean To Find Joy In Little Things?
To begin with, let’s define what is meant by “little things.” These are the small, seemingly insignificant moments or objects in your daily life that often go unnoticed. They can be as simple as a warm hug from a loved one, a beautiful sunset, or even just a good cup of coffee.
So why is it important to find joy in these little things? For one, they add up to make your life more meaningful and fulfilling. By taking the time to appreciate them, you’re able to find happiness in the present moment rather than constantly chasing after some future goal or achievement.
Besides, finding joy in the little things allows you to slow down and savor life. In today’s fast-paced society, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, always looking for the next big thing. But when you take a moment to appreciate the small things, you’re able to pause and truly enjoy the present.
Additionally, finding joy in the little things can help us to cultivate gratitude. When you’re constantly seeking out and appreciating these small moments, it becomes easier to see all the good in your life. This can lead to a more positive outlook and an overall sense of contentment.
Quick Tip: A simple way to start finding joy in the little things is to keep a gratitude journal. Write down at least one thing each day that you are grateful for, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem.
10 Ways To Find Joy In The Little Things In Life
You and I both know that life is a collection of moments, big and small, highs and lows. Sometimes you tend to focus too much on the lows that we forget to appreciate the little things that brings joy.
But it’s these small moments that can truly make a difference and add value to your life. But Finding joy in the little things is crucial for our overall well-being and happiness.
Let’s take a look at some practical ways to cultivate this mindset and incorporate it into your daily life.
1. Surround Yourself With Positive People
When you are going through tough times you need your people. You need to surround yourself with a strong support team of positive people who will always be there for you.
Most of the time when it feels like life has given you a knockout punch and you can’t find your bearings, you might think that having people around you is the last thing you need.
You want to be left alone and retreat in the peace and quiet of your home and curl up in a ball with your thoughts. But one of the best things you can do is to have the right people surrounding you. You need people especially in difficult times.
You don’t need negative people around especially at this point in time if you want to find or hold on to your joy. Keep them at bay.
If for whatever reason you cannot meet face to face, then there are so many options to connect with others in this age of technology.
A simple Good old phone call is one way. You can also Skype or make video calls on Android phones or face time on iPhone. Texting is also another good option. Send an email or even writing a letter.
There are a bunch of ways that can help you and your family and friends to bond and connect no matter your physical distance from each other.
2. It Will Not Last Forever
When you have times of joy and happiness in your life, thinking of the temporary manner of each season in life isn’t something you tend to focus on at all.
The thing is, when you keep the reality at the forefront of your mind, it can be of benefit to you when you are going through difficult times.
The key thing to remember is that it will pass no matter how bad the situation may be. As a matter of fact, the majority of the bad situations that you experience that are out of your hands will end without any help on your part.
We always think that we have to do something in bad times but really, sometimes there is nothing we can do to make something bad go away.
Although this is sometimes the case more often than not, time is the only that will bring some relief or resolve the situation in tough Times.
Make the most of your joy in these situations by choosing to remember that the particular situation you are facing is just temporary.
It’s just a matter of time before it’s over. That’s the way it is right now but it will not be like that forever.
3. Base Your Joy On Yourself
Since you and I already come to the conclusion that life is separated into fluctuations of ups and downs as well as the fact that nothing lasts forever.
Something that you should also keep in mind during the best of times and in the worst situations, is that t if you want to have joy on a consistent basis it needs to come from within you.
Your joy cannot be determined by your circumstances if you ever want to have it on a consistent level. Joy cannot be driven or mandated by your circumstances.
Don’t let all the good things that happen in your life have you walking on air and then let the negative attitude have you in a crumpled heap. This will only cause you to go through life in a state of emotional exhaustion.
Lasting, and consistent joy can only be originated and developed within yourself. And this comes from every moment big or small, that’s what sums up life.
4. Finding Joy In The Little Things In Life
Joy does not come from material things. It only comes from the inside. Make it a choice, and find a way to tap into that. Here a few ideas to help you find joy in your life.
5. Listen To Music
When you listen to music that moves you it brings so much joy. Music does have a positive effect mentally not to mention physically. You can really get a workout dancing away.
Even listening to music from high school days can bring back so many good memories filling you with joy.
Even in difficult times, music can help you to hold it together and give you a sense of peace.
6. Laughter
Laughter and joy go hand in hand. Have you ever thought about the saying ‘laughter is the best medicine’? It’s really something to think about.
Laughter can melt intense and difficult situations and ultimately, laughter can stir your very soul and bring you joy.
7. Celebrate Your Wins
Whatever your accomplishments are whether they’re small wins on a daily basis or a big victory, it’s important that you take the time out to celebrate.
Don’t ignore all the progress that you make. Take a breath and savor these moments. These wins are powerful stepping stones to completing important goals.
When you capture these wins it puts you in a better mental and emotional state and gives you a sense of pride-pure joy.
8. Treasure the Ones You Love
Here’s the thing, you are not truly self-reliant and must depend on your loved ones for comfort and support in order to thrive.
Hear me when I tell you this, connecting with family and friends does matter. It’s a must. Treasure the ones you love because they will bring so much value to your life.
No matter what you think, you really need them. So reach out and bond with your loved ones and create great heartwarming memories together. This will help to bring some joy to your life.
Take the time to show them how grateful you’re to have them in your life. Value these relationships. They’re the ones who will be there for you in good times and even go all out for you in the hard times.
9. Step Out and Enjoy Nature
Enjoy the beauty of nature. Being out in nature makes you feel truly ‘alive.’ It lifts your energy level, gives you so much joy, and helps you heal.
Take a break and escape from those endless demands of life. Step out in nature and listen, inhale, and observe.
Take it all in. The sunset, the ocean, the sand, the trees, the grass, the birds, the flowers- this is just the tip of the iceberg. Believe me when I tell you, it’s the best feeling!
10. Practice Gratitude
When you express gratitude it brings about an upbeat optimism, hopefulness, and contentment. All these positive emotions are all wrapped in a little bundle called joy.
By releasing these feelings of joy gratitude it boosts your overall health and well being.
When you choose joy you are more content within yourself. You’re better prepared to tackle each day with a positive attitude.
This is will have a ripple effect in that you will be even more equipped to embrace any challenge whether on a daily basis or in really hard times.
Conclusion
I’ve included a video by Ronnie and Barty to help you get the gist of what I’m trying to communicate.
Don’t feel defeated by difficult times especially those you have no control over. I know that we’re all humans and sometimes these things can be overwhelming and get to you.
But how you react in these situations can either break you or make you. Think about it, nothing in life is permanent. You are in charge of how you feel. Choose joy.
Search within, what little things in life bring you joy?
Hi, Ann! I loved reading your post! It’s very heartwarming, and I love the tips you shared! I love looking for the simple joys in life, and your post has inspired me to do so more. ?
Hi Sarah,
Happy you were inspired to find and enjoy more of the simple joys in life. That was my objective 🙂
I really needed this article today
Hey Jimmy,
Glad I could help!
Thanks so much for this! It was encouraging to read, especially with all that’s been happening lately. It does help to take a moment to enjoy the little thing such as music and surround yourself with friends who make you laugh and smile amd realise that it’s not so bad and things are going to get better.
Hi Alyssa,
It does help when you take a moment to enjoy the little things. Family and friends are a big part of the whole picture. Good to know it was encouraging.
Love this post bc it highlights the simple shifts that can change everything! Music alone is so powerful for the brain and body and it is such a gift! Thank you for this. Great job!
Hi Lindsay,
Yes, it’s absolutely all in the simple things. I love music too, indeed it is powerful! Happy to help.