Finding Joy - EVERY DAY!

Life can get hectic, and sometimes it’s hard to find happiness in the everyday. But it can be done – I promise!

Basic tips for finding joy

Start by giving yourself permission to enjoy the little things.

Maybe it’s savoring your favorite snack, listening to a song you love, or taking a quick walk outside. Instead of thinking, “I didn’t do enough today,” tell yourself, “That was a good day because I smiled at someone or took a breath.” It’s about appreciating what’s going right.

Take a breath.

Also, when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, pause and breathe. Recognize your emotions without judgment—sadness, nerves, even boredom—and remind yourself that these feelings are normal and temporary. Doing this can help you enjoy moments of peace, like relaxing after homework or chatting with friends, instead of rushing past them.

Celebrate your wins, big or small.

Maybe you nailed an exam, helped someone out, or even just got out of bed on a tough day. Acknowledge it! Gratitude journals are awesome for this—write down three things that brought you joy or made you laugh today. That can shift your focus from stress to gratitude, making everyday moments feel more meaningful.

Remember, self-compassion isn’t just about being nice to yourself—it’s about genuinely appreciating the small joys in life every day. When you do that, you’ll start to see happiness popping up more often, even on your busiest days.