What if the joy you’re looking for is already here, just waiting to be noticed?
We spend so much of our lives chasing big goals and waiting for happiness to arrive. We think we’ll be happy when we get the promotion, buy the house, or finally go on that perfect vacation. I’ve been there. I spent years stuck in a cycle of bad habits, chasing a version of myself that always felt out of reach. I thought happiness was a finish line I had to cross.
When I finally started to turn my life around, losing over 110 pounds and building a life of purpose, I realized something profound. The big achievements were great, but the real, lasting joy wasn't waiting at the destination. It was hidden in the tiny, ordinary moments I had been ignoring all along.
Finding that joy isn’t complicated. It just requires a small shift in focus. Here are 12 simple ways I learned to find joy in my everyday life. I hope they help you find it in yours too.
1. Start with Gratitude
Before your feet even hit the floor in the morning, think of one thing you are thankful for. It doesn't have to be big. Maybe it’s the warmth of your blankets, the sound of birds outside, or just the gift of a new day. Starting with gratitude frames your entire day in a positive light. It reminds you of God’s blessings before the world’s worries have a chance to crowd them out.
2. Pay Attention to the Small Things
We rush through our days on autopilot. But what if you intentionally noticed the little details? Pay attention to the taste of your morning coffee. Feel the warmth of the sun on your skin during your walk. Notice the color of the sky. When we slow down enough to truly see, hear, and feel the world God created for us, we find beauty everywhere.
3. Celebrate the Smallest Wins
When I was working to lose 110 pounds, I couldn’t focus on the final number. It was too overwhelming. Instead, I celebrated the small wins. Choosing a healthy meal was a win. Going for a 10-minute walk was a win. Saying no to a late-night snack was a win. These tiny victories built momentum and proved I was making progress. Acknowledge your small efforts. They are the building blocks of big changes.
4. Disconnect to Reconnect
Our phones are constant sources of distraction and comparison. Set aside a specific time each day to put your phone away. Use that time to connect with someone you love, face-to-face or with a phone call. Have a real conversation without notifications buzzing in the background. True connection with others is a deep source of joy.
5. Do Something for Someone Else
Joy multiplies when you give it away. This doesn't need to be a grand gesture. Hold the door for someone. Send an encouraging text to a friend who is struggling. Let someone go ahead of you in line at the grocery store. These small acts of kindness shift your focus from your own problems to the needs of others. It’s a powerful way to feel connected and purposeful.
6. Get Outside Every Day
There is something incredibly restorative about being in nature. God’s creation is filled with wonders that can calm our souls. Even a short 15-minute walk around the block can clear your head and lift your spirits. Look at the trees, feel the breeze, and breathe in the fresh air. It’s a simple reset for your mind and body.
7. Listen to Uplifting Music
Music has a direct line to our emotions. Create a playlist of songs that make you feel good. It could be worship music that strengthens your faith, classical music that calms your mind, or just fun, upbeat songs that make you want to dance in the kitchen. When you’re feeling down, press play.
8. Savor Your Food
I used to struggle with binge eating, using food to numb my feelings. Now, I try to approach meals with thankfulness. Instead of rushing through your lunch while scrolling on your phone, sit down and truly savor it. Notice the flavors and textures. Be thankful for the food that nourishes your body. Turning a meal into a moment of intentional enjoyment can bring a surprising amount of peace.
9. Read Something That Feeds Your Soul
In a world full of noise, it’s important to fill your mind with things that build you up. This could be a few verses from the Bible, a chapter from an inspiring book, or a daily devotional. Just a few minutes of reading something positive and faith-filled can provide perspective and encouragement for the rest of your day.
10. Straighten Up a Small Space
Clutter can often lead to a cluttered mind. You don’t need to deep clean your entire house to feel a sense of accomplishment. Just take five minutes to clear off your desk, make your bed, or tidy up the kitchen counter. Bringing order to a small part of your physical environment can bring a surprising sense of inner peace and control.
11. Embrace Imperfection
Life is messy. Things will go wrong. You will make mistakes. Joy isn’t found in a perfect life; it’s found in accepting the imperfect one you have. Laugh at yourself when you spill your coffee. Give yourself grace when you don’t get everything on your to-do list done. Letting go of the pressure to be perfect opens up so much room for joy.
12. Connect with God in a Quiet Moment
For me, the ultimate source of joy is my relationship with God. When life feels chaotic, finding a quiet moment for prayer is my anchor. It’s not about formal, structured prayer unless that’s what you prefer. It can be a simple conversation with God while you’re driving, washing dishes, or just sitting in silence. Just turning my heart toward Him reminds me that I am not alone and that my joy is rooted in something much greater than my circumstances.
Finding joy in everyday moments isn't about adding more to your plate. It’s about seeing the good that is already there. It’s a practice, not a destination. You won’t get it right every day, and that’s okay. I’m still learning too.
So, here’s my challenge to you: Don’t try to do all 12 of these things at once. Just pick one.
Which small moment of joy can you look for today?
