JOY – in small things and daily routines

Life as we know it now, can be hectic and overwhelming at times, but it’s important to find joy in the small things that make up our daily routines. Whether it’s savouring a cup of coffee in the morning or taking a few minutes to stretch before starting the day, or walking out to the chirping of birds in my balcony or the calling out of my turkey pets, or the banging of the plates of my munchkin bunnies, finding joy in the small things always has a big impact on my overall well-being. As I write today, I explore for myself and for others, some of the ways which helps me find joy in my daily routines and maybe yours too!

Gratitude and Mindfulness

One of the most powerful ways to finding joy in the small things is through gratitude and mindfulness. Taking a few moments each day to focus & give emphasis to and on the things we’re grateful for can help shift our perspective and bring more joy into our lives. Similarly, practicing mindfulness always helps me to appreciate the small things in my daily routine which otherwise I might overlook, ignore or even forget.

For example, when I start my daily morning work or am running to meet my own deadlines, I take a few moments to really observe my surroundings. Thus, I notice the colours of the leaves on the trees or the way the sunlight filters through the clouds or the ways the birds have busily started their day or how the ants are marching purposefully towards the next grain. By slowing down and being present in the moment, I have found joy in the beauty of my surroundings. I am sure you will too.

Creating Rituals

Another way which I have cultivated to find joy in the small things is to create rituals or routines that I look forward to – everyday. For example, it’s making my first cup of tea at 5 am every morning and taking a few moments to enjoy it in silence as the dawn is just about to break. Or setting aside time each day to write my thoughts or read a few pages of a book I love or a magazine I like to keep up with.

By intentionally & calculatedly creating these moments of joy in my daily routine, I have been able to cultivate a sense of excitement and anticipation for the things that bring me immense pleasure. Such an exercise can help us feel more grounded and centred in our daily lives, even when things get busy or stressful.

Connecting with Others

I have always found that its easy for me to find joy in the small things whenever I connect with others. And my feeling of satisfaction is enhanced many folds when I do small but meaningful things for them: maybe bake a cake when their daughter is visiting or pick up a small inconsequential but thoughtful gift on my travels abroad or just send a message to ask how they’ve been. Whether it’s sharing a meal with friends or simply smiling and greeting a stranger on the street, in the lift – anything which brings in a human connection can be a powerful source of joy in our lives.

I also feel that each time I have made a conscious effort to show kindness and compassion to those around me, even in small ways, it tends to help me feel great about myself and my day. For example, it can be anything from holding the door open for someone or offering a genuine compliment to a co-worker or being considerate for those who work for you. These small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity in our lives and in the lives of others.

I have found joy in the small things in my daily routine by consciously and thoughtfully cultivating thankfulness and mindfulness, creating habits that bring me happiness & pleasure, and connecting with others around me who mean a lot to me. These have helped me create a more joyful and fulfilling reality of existence which makes it worthwhile.

Thus, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, do take a few moments to slow down and appreciate all the small, how-so-ever inconsequential things around you and let me assure you of the immense surprise that shall await you for then you shall see the joy that’s been there all along. Only you never cared to look hard enough!

This post is a part of #BlogchatterA2Z 2023

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