- 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:
- Reliving the music we loved as teenagers.
- Walking in the rain and listening to the raindrops.
- Sleeping in on Sundays.
- Trying out a new coffee shop.
- Accepting a compliment with grace.
- Giving sincere praise to someone.
- Watching a few episodes of our favorite show.
- Dancing around the living room to our favorite tunes in socks.
- Watching birds or squirrels outside the window.
- Catching up with our favorite coworker.
- When the train arrives on time.
- Learning something new, like a language or an instrument.
- Slipping into a fresh, made-up bed at night.
- Cooking with fresh ingredients.
- Getting a hug from loved ones at the right moment.
- The regular takeout shop owner asking about your partner.
- Getting a text from a good friend.
- Applying our favorite scent.
- Cuddling up on the couch with a hot drink and a good book on a blustery day.
- Petting a cat and feeling its purr. Or:
- Playing fetch with a dog in the park.
- The bus driver waiting for us when we're running late.
- Having the door held open for us.
- Singing along to the radio with a buddy in the car.
- Making it to the gym.
- Smelling fresh-cut grass.
- Seeing a child laugh.
- Winning a board game.
- Feeling the wind in our hair while cycling.
- Gazing at the sea or any other body of water.
- Recognizing the title songs of old children's songs.
- Going for a walk in the park.
- Coming home to a clean and tidy apartment.
- Making out with your partner, crush, or date.
- Flipping through old family photos.
- Playing Pokémon on the Game Boy again.
- Being let in line at the store checkout.
- Finding a good deal at a flea market.
- Getting a green light while driving.
- Laughing with friends and family.
- Jumping on a trampoline.
- Receiving a postcard from a friend.
- Watching funny animal videos online.
- Getting a back rub.
- 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.
- Having a friend who's just as silly as we are.
- When the weather is gloomy for days and the sun finally comes out.
- Having the city streets to ourselves at night.
- Cooking our favorite meal, whether it's mashed potatoes with sour cream, pasta, pancakes, or falafel.
- 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.