Two Minutes Du Jour

Sitting on the front porch. Feeling the sun on my face. Walking in nature. Dancing to music when the mood strikes. These and 21 other things are part of my ever-growing joy list – a simple yet powerful practice of mindfully noting down the things that bring me happiness and fulfillment.

The Power of a Joy List

Early in January, a time of year when I’m naturally reflective and focused on a mix of self-care as well as planning and preparation for the months ahead, I created a list of things that bring me joy – or as I noted on the page, equal heaven on earth.

Little did I know the profound impact this simple exercise would have. Maintaining a joy list cultivates gratitude and appreciation for the present moment. It serves as a reminder of the abundance of joy in our lives, even during challenging times. And it helps us intentionally seek out and create more joyful experiences.

Creating Your Joy List

In no particular order, just as the ideas came to me, I listed things like the beach, the mountains, and sun. I also included lots of -ing words because I like do-ING things like hosting parties, cooking, and bringing people together.

If you’d like to create your own joy list, start with a simple notebook or digital document. Jot down anything that brings a smile, no matter how small. Include a mix of solo activities and shared experiences. Revisit and add to the list regularly, and refer to it when you need a mood boost.

Embracing Daily Joys

Some of the items on my list are solo, but many are with specific people, including my husband, dog (he counts as a person in my world), my children and grandson, my coworkers, clients and students, friends, and neighbors. Relationships are a big part of what brings me joy.

I also realized that at least 10 of the things are daily joys. I don’t live near the beach or the mountains, but practicing yoga, learning Spanish and French, taking walks no matter the weather, cooking, and more are joys I can experience every day.

As the day continued and in the weeks that followed, new items like people-watching, having fresh flowers, an afternoon nap, and listening to rain occurred to me.

Each time I look at the list or add something new, I feel joy. This list itself reminds me of how much joy I can experience every day and how much joy I can look forward to or even plan for.

Take a few minutes today to start your own joy list. Cultivating joy is a simple yet profound practice that can positively impact your overall well-being.

Two Minutes Du Jour:

3 Simple Ways to Cultivate Joy Every Day – Mindful – Healthy Mind, Healthy Life

FindingJoy.net – a website dedicated to intentional living and seeking joy in life, specifically in motherhood and empowerment for women – Rachel Marie Martin, author of The Brace Art of Motherhood.