Do You Have A Joy List?
In spring of 2024, I was listened to this podcast titled ‘Making Joy Our Metric For Success’. I loved its sentiment: doing things simply for the joy of them, rather than for likes, kudos, or something to share on the internet.
It’s all too easy to get caught up in doing things for others’ approval. The risk with this inauthentic action is that it often doesn’t bring deep joy—at least not until others acknowledge what we’ve done.
So, my first question to you is: Do you know what brings you joy?
Knowing what brings us joy makes it easier to seek out. This list doesn’t need to include grandiose things like trekking the Himalayas or having a bank account full of money. Instead, think about your day-to-day life—what little joys do you find in it?
I wrote my own list back in 2020, and it’s surprising how little it’s needed updating since then.
Some of them include:
Walking in nature
Sunsets
Surfing
Riding my bike
That first sip of coffee
Long hugs with my friends
Watching films at the cinema (Hello Watershed Bristol!)
Cooking new things
Reading
I’m someone who lives for adventure.
Whether it’s at home or traveling far away, I’m always chasing it. While I love this part of my life, I know it’s not my everyday reality. It wouldn’t make sense to wait for those big adventures to find joy. Joyful things are happening all around me—I just have to slow down and notice them.
If you haven’t already, start writing your list of things that bring you joy. Dedicate 20 minutes to this—it doesn’t need to be taxing. Just jot down whatever naturally comes to mind, no matter how big or small.
Joy is something we can cultivate in our lives every day. It’s the small things we often overlook: the warmth of sun on our skin, sharing tea with friends, the feeling of finishing a book or hearing your favourite song. By being present and noticing these moments, we give ourselves the opportunity to enjoy them and make more space for joy in our lives.
Happy joy-seeking!
Wow I love this concept!