Life moves fast, and it is easy to overlook the small moments that bring us joy. But what if those little joys are the secret to living a more grateful, fulfilled life?

This week, we’re embracing the affirmation:

Kimberly and Poovey enjoying a cozy night at home by their warm fireplace.

I am grateful for the little joys in my life.

I notice and appreciate the simple joys that surround me.

Appreciating the little joys in life is an act of self-love, reminding us that we’re worthy of slowing down and savoring the moments that make us truly happy.

Little joys may seem small, but they make everything sweeter. These tiny moments add up to create a life filled with happiness and meaning.

When you pause to appreciate them, you brighten your day and train your mind to focus on the good.

The best part is that little joys are everywhere if you take the time to notice them. They show us that we don’t need extravagance to feel fulfilled because life’s magic often lies in the simplest pleasures.

It is so tempting to think you need a big, fancy vacation to feel excitement or you need the latest designer goods to feel joy. Those feelings are traps and more often than not, whatever was bothering you before, will still be bothering you after the fact.

So how do we know what the little joys in our life are?

Identifying the little joys in your life starts with slowing down and being present in the moment. Pay attention to the things that make you smile. Take a few minutes each day to reflect on what made you feel happy and write it down.

The more you practice noticing these small treasures, the more you’ll realize how much joy is already part of your daily life.

Art journaling can be a powerful way to deepen your gratitude practice. Instead of just writing down what you’re grateful for, you can draw, paint, or collage to visually represent those little joys. The act of creating can help you connect with those emotions more deeply and solidify them in your memory.

By using your art journal to capture these moments, you give yourself a dedicated space to reflect, express, and celebrate the simple joys in life.

Kimberly reading a good book while Poovey takes a restful nap beside her.

Creative Art Journal Prompt

Savor the Small Stuff

Create a joy-filled collage using sketches or clippings of things that make you happy.

What are five small things that brought me joy recently? Do you have any vivid memories tied to a simple joy?

To help you brainstorm what some little joys are in your life, I have compiled a list for you to reference and to inspire your own list:

Everyday Little Joys

• A warm cup of tea or coffee

• Warming up by a fireplace under a blanket

• A blooming flower with buzzing bees and butterflies

• An engaging book to keep you company for hours

• A heartfelt hug with a loved one or a pet

Nature-Inspired Joys

• A rainbow peeking through after the rain

• Sunrise or sunset over a peaceful garden

• A bird chirping on a branch

• Blowing the dandelion spores and making a wish

• A hearty picnic under a shady tree

Cozy Indoor Moments

• A flickering candle lighting up a dark room

• Warming your hands near a fireplace or heater

• A napping cat or dog, curled up and content

• A freshly written-in journal page

• Freshly baked cookies with a glass of milk on the side

Playful Joys

• Popping bubbles as they float away

• Flying kites in a bright, breezy park

• Joyful swinging at a playground

• Dancing in the rain, carefree and splashing

• A fun little game or puzzle for a quick break

Here’s a peek at my sketchbook collage, capturing the little joys that light up my days:

My sketchbook doodles expressing gratitude for the little joys in my personal life. I wonder what doodles will be in yours?

For me, the five things that stand out that recently gave me joy are:

1. Sitting in the backyard, watching the clouds drift lazily across the sky

2. Wrapping up in my big cozy scarf that keeps the winter chill at bay

3. Starting each morning with a warm, comforting bowl of oats and berries

4. Sweet kisses and hugs from my kids that fill my heart with love

5. My library card, opening the door to endless hours of adventures and inspiration

What stands out most to me about these five small things is that the majority of them were completely free. It’s a beautiful reminder that life’s greatest pleasures don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. These moments are priceless and often overlooked. Joy doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive; it’s found in the simple, everyday moments that bring us genuine happiness and connection.

By slowing down and paying attention to the little joys in your life, you can create a deeper sense of appreciation for what’s around you.

Let’s cherish the simple things and be grateful for the everyday beauty that surrounds us.