Let’s be honest—some days feel like you're carrying the whole world on your back while it’s actively trying to throw tomatoes at you. The headlines are terrifying, the politics are exhausting, and even your group chat might be a little too intense. But in the middle of all this madness, I’ve found a handful of little joys that somehow stitch me back together.
Morning Coffee With the Cat
Every morning, before emails and existential dread, I sit with my coffee while my cat curls up next to me. She purrs, I sip, and for a few precious minutes, the world slows down. If you don’t have a cat, substitute with a dog, a plant, or a really cozy blanket.
Music From My Youth That Still Slaps
Whether it's Fleetwood Mac, Earth, Wind & Fire, or a little Bonnie Raitt, nothing lifts my mood like blasting a song I know by heart. Bonus joy points for singing out loud and dramatically pointing at imaginary backup singers.
Funny Animal Videos
No shame here—I’ve spent hours watching goats in pajamas and parrots talking smack. Laughter is medicine, and animals are unintentionally hilarious. YouTube and TikTok are treasure troves if you know what to search for (“goats yelling like humans” is a classic).
Lighting a Candle for No Reason
A flickering flame, a scent like cinnamon or eucalyptus, and suddenly my house feels like a spa instead of a bunker. Candles signal to my brain that it’s okay to relax, even if only for ten minutes.
Texting Someone Just to Say “I’m Thinking of You”
I don’t need a deep conversation—just a moment of connection. It lifts me to lift someone else. Sometimes they don’t even respond right away, but I know I’ve put a little love into the world.
A Good Walk With Zero Agenda
Not power-walking. Not for steps. Just meandering. Looking at weird-shaped trees. Smelling the air. Letting my brain untangle itself in motion. Bonus joy if I see a squirrel doing something awkward.
Rewatching an Old Show That Feels Like Home
Mine is The Golden Girls, but it could be Murder, She Wrote or the early seasons of Grey’s Anatomy—whatever feels like comfort food in screen form. It’s okay to rewatch the same thing 18 times. It’s called therapy.
Writing With a Really Good Pen
I know, it’s nerdy. But something about a smooth-flowing ink pen on thick paper just makes me feel grounded. Even if I’m only jotting down a grocery list, it feels like I’m anchoring myself.
Saying “No” Without Explaining Why
This one’s a little spicy, but it brings me deep joy. Saying “No, I can’t do that” without offering a single justification feels like reclaiming my time, my energy, and my sanity. Highly recommend.
Letting Myself Be Unproductive Without Guilt
Sometimes I stare at the ceiling and do nothing. Sometimes I nap. Sometimes I read the same paragraph in a book four times because my brain is tired. And I’ve stopped judging myself for it. Rest is resistance too.
These tiny joys don’t erase the chaos, but they do remind me I have control over the little things—and those little things add up. If you’ve got a go-to joy ritual, I’d love to hear about it. We could all use more softness in our lives right now. Keep going, friend. You’re doing better than you think.