Small Joyful Moments We Encounter Daily, Boosting Our Happiness Levels

- Small Joyful Moments We Encounter Daily, Boosting Our Happiness Levels

Sometimes life feels like a constant struggle, and it's tough to find happiness in the small things. When that happens, it's easy to dismiss advice about finding joy in the simple moments as cliché. But a study from 2012 suggests that appreciating these little pleasures can actually lead to greater life satisfaction.

Small moments that can improve your day

Here's a list of 50 things that bring happiness to our daily lives:

1. Reliving the music we loved as teenagers.
2. Walking in the rain and listening to the raindrops.
3. Sleeping in on Sundays.
4. Trying out a new coffee shop.
5. Accepting a compliment with grace.
6. Giving sincere praise to someone.
7. Watching a few episodes of our favorite show.
8. Dancing around the living room to our favorite tunes in socks.
9. Watching birds or squirrels outside the window.
10. Catching up with our favorite coworker.
11. When the train arrives on time.
12. Learning something new, like a language or an instrument.
13. Slipping into a fresh, made-up bed at night.
14. Cooking with fresh ingredients.
15. Getting a hug from loved ones at the right moment.
16. The regular takeout shop owner asking about your partner.
17. Getting a text from a good friend.
18. Applying our favorite scent.
19. Cuddling up on the couch with a hot drink and a good book on a blustery day.
20. Petting a cat and feeling its purr. Or:
21. Playing fetch with a dog in the park.
22. The bus driver waiting for us when we're running late.
23. Having the door held open for us.
24. Singing along to the radio with a buddy in the car.
25. Making it to the gym.
26. Smelling fresh-cut grass.
27. Seeing a child laugh.
28. Winning a board game.
29. Feeling the wind in our hair while cycling.
30. Gazing at the sea or any other body of water.
31. Recognizing the title songs of old children's songs.
32. Going for a walk in the park.
33. Coming home to a clean and tidy apartment.
34. Making out with your partner, crush, or date.
35. Flipping through old family photos.
36. Playing Pokémon on the Game Boy again.
37. Being let in line at the store checkout.
38. Finding a good deal at a flea market.
39. Getting a green light while driving.
40. Laughing with friends and family.
41. Jumping on a trampoline.
42. Receiving a postcard from a friend.
43. Watching funny animal videos online.
44. Getting a back rub.
45. Learning what "delulu" (short for "delusional" - when someone gets carried away or sees hallucinations) or "bombastic side eye" (a disapproving side glance) means from a younger friend.
46. Having a friend who's just as silly as we are.
47. When the weather is gloomy for days and the sun finally comes out.
48. Having the city streets to ourselves at night.
49. Cooking our favorite meal, whether it's mashed potatoes with sour cream, pasta, pancakes, or falafel.
50. Soaking in a bath.

These small moments can be especially cherished during the weekend. Relishing in these pleasures, such as enjoying a favorite show or trying out a new coffee shop, can help increase happiness and life satisfaction.

On weekends, indulging in simple joys like walking in the rain or making it to the gym can provide a much-needed boost during what often feels like a hectic work week.

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