In the course of an average day, the concept of joy may not come up for many people. We get into our routines or work schedules and often find ourselves going through the motions.

Sometimes we get caught up in the negativity that can surround us, especially if we’re regularly watching the news, listening to others complain, and/or focusing on the aspects of our life we’re not happy with.

Have you ever noticed that when bad things happen, it seems like they keep happening?

Fortunately, the same is true of good things. Finding more joy in your life allows you to focus on the good that surrounds you, rather than the bad.

When we notice the little things in our everyday lives that make us happy, we’re happy more. Good feeds on good in the same way that bad feeds on bad.

It’s easy to listen to someone complain about something and join in on the negativity. It seems to be harder for people (in general) to notice and talk about the good things that are happening in their lives.

For most of us, there are countless little things that can make us happy in any given day.

Some people are turned off by the word joy. It almost feels too big or too happy.

If this is true for you, use a different word, but let yourself notice when you feel good throughout your day.

Some examples of small things that add up to a happier day:

• Noticing how good your hot shower feels in the morning (and maybe even how good the cold shower feels when it’s done).

• Being in the moment while enjoying your coffee or tea, rather than rushing out the door with it. If you do have to rush out with it, enjoy it as you’re driving.

• Appreciating the reliability of your vehicle, the easy access to food, your health, a few spare moments in your day, getting out for. a walk, relaxing with a pet, etc.

The opportunities to feel good in any given day are countless if you look for them. The more we look, the better we feel and the more good we tend to bring into our lives.

We have a choice every moment in every day. Sometimes we’re going to forget, start complaining about something or just feeling negative about something we don’t like.

When you find yourself going down that path, notice how your body feels physically. If you can “pivot” and change what you’re focusing on, you may also be able to change the way you feel both physically and mentally.

Action Steps:

• Can you find 5 things right now that you’re grateful for or that make you happy / joyful?

  For example, I’m writing this while 1) sitting in a comfortable room 2) in front of a fire 3) with my cats sleeping next to me 4) getting my blog done in advance so I can play pickleball tomorrow afternoon and 5) I’m going into my hot tub once I’m done.

• Keep trying to appreciate the little things in your life that are good as you go through your days.

  Happiness, gratitude and joy are emotions that can dramatically improve the quality of your life!