It’s easy to get caught up with worries during difficult times. You may even think that finding joy
involves a great deal of work or money. This isn’t true at all – there are plenty of ways to create joy in your life right now with little to nothing!
Here are some ideas to help you enjoy more happiness every day:
1. Disconnect and Unplug.
Turn off the TV, news and social media. While these things can be helpful to keep you informed and entertained, it’s important to remember life outside of them. You’ll be amazed at how many projects you can complete without these distractions! For example, instead of mindlessly watching another rerun of Seinfeld, complete a photo album, do a puzzle, finish a book or redecorate a room.
2. Learn something new.
Take a class. Almost everyone has a hobby they’ve been wanting to try for a long time. It’s time to make time. Put yourself out there and take a class! Get instruction on how to do the thing you are interested in. Many communities have virtual and/or physical lists publicly posted that broadcast schedules for extracurricular activities such as dance, scrapbooking, embroidery, pottery and more that are led by local leaders. Most likely – you will find that these community classes are affordable or even free!
3. Check in with your people.
Get in touch with a friend and share a few laughs or even cry together. The Internet has made it easier than ever to reconnect with people from your past. Whether you last spoke to your friend a month ago or decades ago, it can be a joyful experience. Reflect on your friendship and discuss the memories you have.
4. Go green and get earthy.
Start a garden. There are many plants and herbs that you can grow both indoors and outdoors. Experiment with different seasonal plants or grow some vegetables that you’ll enjoy later on, too. There’s nothing like the taste of homegrown vegetables!
5. Create with your bare hands.
Dabble in arts and crafts. There are so many fun activities that involve using your imagination and tapping into your creative side. Just take a trip down the aisle of your local craft store to get some ideas or do a quick search on Pinterest for inspiration on easy projects. Low-cost alternatives for art supplies include heading to your nearest dollar store. You’ll be amazed at the new treasures you can adorn your home with!
6. Breath in fresh air.
Go for a walk or a nature hike. Take your family or go alone. Walking, hiking or biking can be a great break in your day. You’ll be able to reflect, relax, and enjoy the open, crisp air.
7. Celebrate a win.
Organize a sports night. Get some of your friends together for a game every once in a while. It’s always beneficial to get a little exercise and it will be fun to socialize, too.
8. Stargaze.
On a peaceful, clear night, get in touch with nature in a different way. Enjoy the stars! Pick up an astronomy guide and learn to identify the planets and constellations.
9. Journal.
One great way to reflect on your day and get to know yourself is by journaling. For additional fun, pretend you’re writing to a long-lost friend or write a letter to yourself in the future.
10. Chef it up.
Learn to cook something new. It’s always a good idea to add exciting new meals to your repertoire. Find a recipe website or a cookbook and try something you’ve never tried before.
11. Pick a team and compete.
Have a game night. Gather your family together for some fun and games. Invite friends over to add to the fun. If you’re feeling especially creative, try designing your very own board game and play that one.
12. Explore your city.
Be a tourist. You can become a tourist without ever leaving your hometown. It’s likely that you haven’t been everywhere in your town. Pretend you’re on vacation and try all the tourist attractions. You’ll learn something new and may even discover places you’ll enjoy visiting often!
You’ll soon find that opportunities for joy in your life are around every corner. With a little creative thinking, you can have a great time every day, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money to do it, either.
