110+ Little Things That Bring Joy Into Your Life

Over the last couple of years, I’ve been mindful to appreciate the little things that bring joy.  Have you ever noticed that often it’s the little things in life that add enjoyment and enrich your day more than the “big stuff”? Though, we sometimes overlook them and get lost in all of the chaos of the day.

It’s easy to let something ruin your day, but when you’re intentional about looking more closely and recognizing all of the little things that bring contentment, your level of joy will also increase. So it’s a win-win.

Do your best each day to try to notice and savour those little things in life.

I’m a foodie so starting my day with a delicious breakfast is something I look forward to. 

My daughter’s smiles and hugs in the morning instantly make my heart happy, and reading something uplifting and inspiring is energizing.

A relaxing shower, a friend’s thoughtful text, great weather–this list goes on.  

The Little Things In Life That Bring Joy Can Transform Your Day

I’ve been reading about simple pleasures, and it’s fascinating as there is a science behind it. Research shows that simple pleasures not only make you feel good but can help you achieve daily goals even when you are feeling stressed. (1)

Joy, even from something as small as eating your favourite snack, positively impacts your body.

I’m sure you can think of some little things that bring joy, and many of these simple pleasures are universal.

We have more in common and things that connect us than we think and that in itself is something that makes me smile.

Try creating your own list of little things that bring joy to your day. It’s fun and something you can look at when you’re feeling low or having a bad day. It’s also a good exercise in practicing gratitude, which also lifts your spirits.

Here’s my list:

110+ Little Things In Life That Light Up Your Day

1. Sunshine.

2. Watching a gorgeous sunset.

3. Pancake breakfast with Nutella and berries-yum!

4. A baby or child’s laughter.

5. A long hug.

6. A smile. 😀

7. Reading an inspiring book.

8. Getting a massage.

9. Laughing till your belly aches.

10. The soothing sound of waves.

11. Nature walks.

12. Fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies or muffins.🍪

13. Warm tea in the winter.

14. Looking at old photos.

15. A stranger giving you a compliment.

16. The smell of cinnamon.

17. Walking barefoot in the sand.

18. A relaxing warm shower.

19. The first snowfall.

20. Donating items to charity.

21. Ice cream on a hot day.🍦

22. Watching my favourite movie(s).

23. Dates with your partner.

24. Fond memories of a loved one who has passed.

25. Holding a newborn baby.

26. Finding something you love on sale.

27. Playing my favourite song on repeat.

28. Fall colours.

29. Watching my kids bond.

30. Getting a handwritten card in the mail.

More Little Things That Bring Joy 😊

Are any resonating with you? These all make me so happy, and I hope this will inspire you to create your own list, too.

31. Retro 80’s music.

32. Staring at the ocean.

33. Holding my husband’s hand.

34. Having a solo dance party.💃🏽

35. Warm clothes out of the dryer.

36. Finding a hair tie when I need one.

37. Saturdays!!

38. Finding money in your jacket pocket.

39. Getting a kind comment on social media.

40. Gourmet doughnuts.

41. Doing something nice for someone.

42. Discovering a new shop in town.

43. Having a day off.

44. Getting a manicure.💅🏼

45. Sleeping in.

46. Family game nights.

47. Seeing an elderly couple hold hands.

48. Organizing your closet.

49. Bumping into an old friend.

50. Being comfy in bed on winter nights.

51. Saying a daily self-affirmation.

52. Going on a picnic.

53. Colourful flowers.

54. Being grateful for something on a bad day.

55. A funny text message.

56. Reading a daily devotional at breakfast.

57. Finding a close parking spot.

58. A good hair day.

59. Kindness-giving or receiving.

60. My girls saying “I love you.” ❤️

Little Things In Life That Bring Joy Continues…

61. Popping bubble wrap.

62. Going through the car wash.

63. Dark chocolate.

64. Cuddling in a soft throw blanket.

65. A trip to the bookstore.

66. Saying a heartfelt prayer.

67. Watermelon on a summer day. 🍉

68. Mini road trips with my family.

69. Getting a pedicure at the salon.

70. The feeling of making a difference by volunteering.

71. Petting a fluffy dog.

72. A great song on the radio when you’re driving.

73. Having breakfast with a friend.

74. Sunshine when it’s raining.

75. Having the courage to do something out of my comfort zone.

76. Getting a package in the mail.

77. Drinking a delicious bubble tea with tapioca.

78. Gazing at the stars. ✨

79. Checking off things on your to-do list.

80. Finding a new, easy recipe.

81. Watching funny videos.

82. Waking up too early and realizing you have more time to sleep.

83. Adorable baby panda pictures or videos.

84. The feeling of fresh bed sheets.

85. The smell from an essential oil diffuser.

86. Reading a powerful inspirational quote.

87. Having a good night’s sleep. 

88. Watching a snippet of my favourite cartoons from childhood.

89. Finding something you thought you lost. 

The Final Enjoy the Little Things In Life…

90. Hitting a few green lights in a row while driving. 🚦

91. Trying a great new restaurant.

92. Getting fresh popcorn at the movie theatre.

93. Eating sushi for lunch.

94. Warm, cozy sweaters.

95. Payday!

96. Having a door held open for you.

97. Christmas morning.

98. Listening to live music.

99. Putting your feet up after a long day.

100. Having an uplifting conversation.

101. Eating birthday cake.

102. Lighting a scented candle.

103. Taking a leisurely drive for no reason.

104. The sound of waves at the beach.

105. Buying a new lipgloss.

106. Drinking a milkshake.

107. Making a fun list.

108. Going apple picking.

109. Opening windows on a beautiful morning.

110. Watching movies all day when you’re sick.

111. Washing your face in the morning.

112. The smell of your favourite lotion.

113. Getting your feet rubbed.

114. A bird’s nest in your backyard.

115. Hearing unexpected good news.

116. Waking up in the morning! Life is a gift.

Little Things In Life That Bring Joy: Final Thoughts

Those are it for me: 116 little things that bring joy into my day.  Which of these makes you happy?

Reflecting on these small moments or simple pleasures in life is a great way to practice gratitude intentionally and put things into perspective.

Gratitude has so many benefits, including lowering stress and anxiety, getting better sleep, and increasing your self-esteem.

Creating a list of little things that bring joy into your day is also an excellent family activity or self-care activity to lift your spirits.

Always remember to enjoy the little things in life and see how your mindset shifts for the better!

Related article: Celebrate Yourself: 23 Fun Ways to Boost Your Confidence & Joy

I’d love to hear the little things in life that bring you joy. Please share in the comments below.

References:
1. There’s Nothing Simple About Simple Pleasure – Psychology Today

Header photo by Miesha Maiden from Pexels