20 Ways to Find Your Joy: A Happiness Guide

How do you find your joy?

These days, with the political climate, negativity, and polarization at an all-time high, it may be hard to be optimistic. However, we cannot let fear and darkness take over our lives. Tapping into your pockets of joy is critical for your overall well-being.

Finding joy doesn’t have to be a lifelong quest or a significant project. Joy is in the small, everyday moments, often hiding in plain sight. Here’s a list of 20 simple and effective ways to help you reconnect with joy and keep it alive.

Practice Gratitude Daily

Start or end your day by listing three things you’re grateful for and focusing on what you have rather than your lack, which creates a positive mindset that opens up space for joy.

Engage in Physical Activity

Movement boosts endorphins, our body’s “feel-good” hormones. Whether it’s yoga, running, dancing, or even a walk in the park, find what feels good and let it lift your spirits.

Spend Time in Nature

Step outside, breathe in the fresh air and let nature’s beauty inspire you. Studies show that time in nature improves mood, reduces stress, and fosters joy.

Nurture Relationships

Joy often comes from connection. Make time for family and friends, reach out to loved ones, and invest in meaningful relationships. Even a quick check-in call can bring happiness.

Learn Something New

Exploring new skills, hobbies, or areas of interest can reawaken your excitement and curiosity. Take up a new hobby, read a book outside your usual genre, or learn a new language.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness helps you live in the present. Try a short meditation, focus on breathing, or savor a meal without distractions. Being present allows you to experience life’s moments fully.

Celebrate Small Wins

Please take note of your achievements, however small they may seem. Whether you complete a task or reach a goal, acknowledge your progress and credit yourself for it.

Engage in Creative Expression

Creativity taps into a unique sense of joy. Let yourself create without worrying about perfection, whether painting, writing, crafting, or cooking.

Volunteer or Help Others

Acts of kindness are potent joy-bringers. Giving your time, energy, or resources to help someone can boost your mood and sense of purpose.

Limit Social Media

While social media can connect us, using it too much can lead to comparisons and drain joy. Try setting boundaries or taking a social media detox to reconnect with your life.

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Surround Yourself with Positivity

Create an uplifting environment. Spend time with people who lift you, read inspiring stories, or listen to motivating podcasts. Positive influences help keep joy alive.

Declutter Your Space

A clean, organized space can create a sense of calm and peace. Tidy up, remove what you don’t need, and make a space that feels good.

Laugh Often

Laughter truly is medicine for the soul. Watch a funny show, spend time with people who make you laugh, or even try laughter yoga. Finding reasons to laugh will instantly lift your mood.

Practice Self-Care

Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Take time to care for yourself—whether through a warm bath, a relaxing book, or simply getting enough sleep.

Set and Pursue Personal Goals

Goals give us direction and motivation. Set small, achievable goals that align with your passions, and celebrate each step forward.

Listen to Uplifting Music

Music has a profound impact on our mood. Create a playlist of songs that make you feel happy, calm, or energized, and listen to it when you need a boost.

Keep a Journal

Journaling helps you process emotions and reflect on your day. Whether you jot down thoughts, doodle, or write about your dreams, use it as a space for self-discovery and growth.

Practice Deep Breathing

Deep, intentional breaths calm the nervous system and reduce stress. Practicing even a few minutes of deep breathing can bring a sense of calm and happiness.

Create Time for Play

Don’t let “adulting” stop you from enjoying life. Whether playing with kids, doing something silly, or revisiting childhood games, bring playfulness into your routine.

Focus on Your Passions

Doing what you love brings joy naturally. If you have a passion, make time for it regularly. If you’re unsure of your passions, explore activities until you find what lights you up.

Joy isn’t something to find only when life is perfect. We can nurture it daily through small practices and conscious choices. Embrace these ways, stay open to happiness, and watch how joy enters your life.

I hope you got some great ideas from my 20 Ways to Find Your Joy list. What are you most interested in from this list?