All you need to know about…

giving happiness global impact

The Art of Happiness: Find Joy in Little Things

The Art of Happiness: Find Joy in Little Things

The path to happiness often feels daunting because there is a pressure to accomplish great things in order to make it happen. The world often glorifies big milestones as markers of happiness, but it is important to recognize how the smaller things contribute to a happy life. The art of happiness is about appreciating what life has to offer, and this can be done through simple, everyday actions. Here are some simple ways in which you can find joy in the little things.

Small Things Make Up a Happy Life

1. Slow Down and Observe

In the hustle and bustle of the everyday, it is easy to overlook the beauty of life. By taking the time to slow down and move away from the fast-paced nature of everyday life, there is a greater appreciation for the present and the little things that surround us. This can be as simple as taking the time to meditate, taking a walk to enjoy the fresh air, or limiting screen time.

2. Keep a Gratitude Journal

Gratitude journals are an excellent way to take the time to appreciate the small things and they don’t require much effort. Sometimes at the end of a bad day it can be very easy to spiral and focus on the negative but reminding yourself of the small things that contribute to your happiness. Sharing three small things reframes the bad and serves as a source of strength in challenging times. These are easily accessible by having a small notebook or keeping an online journal.

3. Engage Your Senses

Engage your senses fully in the simple experiences that bring you joy. The rich aroma of your favorite meal, the gentle breeze brushing against your skin, or the familiar melody of a beloved song. Even trying something new, like slipping into a bright color or savoring the warmth of freshly baked treats, awakens the senses and adds a spark of joy to everyday life. By tuning into these sensations, you allow your body to become an active participant in your happiness.

4. Reframe Routine Tasks

Instead of seeing chores as burdens, find ways to enjoy them or consider how they make your life better. Try listening to music or a podcast while tidying up, find shampoos with a scent that makes your showers feel like a small luxury, or think of new outfit ideas while folding clothes. Even the rhythm of sweeping, the warmth of fresh laundry, or the satisfying feeling of a clean space can turn routine tasks into moments of comfort. These little shifts in perspective help reframe the mundane into something meaningful. Chores, rather than being inconveniences, can become reminders of the stability and privileges we have. By infusing everyday tasks with small joys, we transform them from obligations into opportunities for gratitude and peace.

the art of happiness

5. Seek out Friendship

The art of happiness is done alongside others in a community. Seeking friendship is a small yet meaningful way to invite more happiness into your life. Even the simplest acts such as sending a quick message to check in, sharing a laugh over coffee, or exchanging stories about the day creates moments of warmth and connection. Making the effort to reach out, even in small ways, strengthens bonds and reminds us that we are not alone. A kind word, a shared experience, or just the comfort of knowing someone cares can turn an ordinary day into something special.

6. Make Small Goals

Achieving larger goals can feel impossible when life gets overwhelming and it crashes down all at once. One way to combat this is to introduce small goals that can be achieved everyday, the growth and progress that comes from these small tasks bring about a sense of accomplishment. Small goals to build off of could be learning a new word every day, trying to incorporate a 5-minute workout into a routine, or solving a puzzle.

Finding Joy Everywhere

Research in positive psychology shows that happiness isn’t just about major life events—it’s built through daily habits and mindful appreciation. There is a real value to be able to take in and appreciate what’s around rather than stressing about what we feel should be ahead. The art of happiness is found in sustainable and consistent actions every single day. There are times where life is tough but in finding happiness in these small moments they remind us that a happy life is also about choosing to see the good in what surrounds us.65gi

So, take a deep breath, look around, and ask yourself: What’s one small thing that made me happy today? You might be surprised by how much joy you’ve been missing.

Sign up for 365give’s Daily Inspiration and have it delivered right to your inbox!

Need more ideas on how to incorporate happiness in our daily lives? Check out these blogs:

Key to Happiness: Unlocking the Secrets to Joyful Living

What is Happiness? How to Be Happier Every Day

 

+ posts

Janice is passionate about staying connected to their community through meaningful involvement. A lover of books and the ukulele, they contribute to 365give to inspire others to create positive change through simple, everyday actions.

Share Article:

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

What people are saying about 365give

“I wanted to express my gratitude for the teaching you provided today. Your message was delivered eloquently, compassionately, and without judgment. The kids were engaged, and now have knowledge with which they can change the world. We all appreciated how you took the time to help us learn to build positive mindsets and practice happiness.”
Shelley Gardner, Grade 6 Ridgeview Elementary (West Vancouver)
“Actions really do speak louder than words, which is why I believe the 365give Challenge has resonated throughout my community. Every give we do is so important to us and leaves us happier and appreciating our lives a little bit more than before.”
Mahina Niyozova (Tajikistan)
“After watching the 365give TEDx Talk, I was inspired to join and begin a daily giving program in India. Today, along with 12 other volunteer women, we provide 100 meals to local underprivileged children in Bangalore for school every day.”
Deepika Ahuja, Mom (Bangalore, India)
“My life has greater meaning now.”
Renate Jorge, @BeKindBrazil and 365give Member, Family Program (Brazil)
“I just wanted to share that 365give really helped me. I am a better person now, thank you.”
MayLee, 365give Member, Individual Program
“This 365give Challenge has really injected excitement and extra enthusiasm in each work day as I think about what we can do. It has motivated me and the students.”
Cristina Peters, School Counselor (New York City, USA)
“I have seen a huge shift in energy throughout my classroom since doing the 365give Challenge. The Challenge has empowered my students to make a positive difference in the school’s community and beyond.”
Cella Adriana, Special Needs Educator /The Holliswood School (New York City, USA)
“The 365give Challenge helps students understand their impact on others. It opens avenues for introducing and discussing global and local issues in classrooms. It is powerful to watch students of all ages think about how they can make a change in another person’s life with one small act.”
Jessica Hall, Primary Teacher, French Immersion at École Pauline Johnson (West Vancouver, Canada)

Your contribution will create
a ripple of good in the world

We can’t change the world alone.

We can when we work together.

Every dollar given to 365give is action for a better world.

Donate Today

[email protected]

Send us a message