Finding joy in the simple things: 5 easy ways to feel better every day

Mar 19

Written By Emilee Harris // Lifestyle // EEW Magazine Online

I used to get really upset and flustered when things went wrong. The smallest issue could negatively influence my day, and I would feel like everything was spiraling. But I did not want to lose control that easily, so I prayed to God for help.

I specifically asked for clarity, direction, and insight on how to go through my days with a more positive attitude and better outlook. God answered me by speaking to my heart and saying, “Find joy in the simple things.”

That might not seem like a huge revelation to everyone, but it was a game-changer for me! It was quite practical and doable, too. If you want to experience more happiness and a better outlook, EEW Magazine Online recommends starting with the small stuff, the everyday stuff, the ordinary stuff.

Here are 5 simple things to infuse some happiness into your day:

#1 Appreciate Nature. If you don’t go outdoors and allow yourself to be awed by the beauty of God’s creation, you’re missing out! Romans 1:20 tells us that God’s invisible attributes, his eternal power and divine nature, are revealed to us through nature. Take a stroll. Go to the beach. Go on a hike. Breathe in some fresh air. It will do wonders for your mood and your spirit. Plus, the sun is a great source of Vitamin D to keep you healthy and strong.

#2 Please your palate. Health is wealth, and fruits and veggies are a must on the regular. At the same time, everything requires balance, and there is nothing wrong with tickling your taste buds with something sweet and decadent on occasion. Why not find some alone time, and wind down with a delicious custard cone, a slice of homemade pie, a piece of dark chocolate, or a serving of cheesecake? Just a serving, now—not the whole cake! In moderation (if you don’t have any health challenges that prohibit sugar), get cozy, and please your palate.

#3 Escape with a book. Reading feels like a lost art in the age of social media, but it’s a great escape. While we know the Bible is the greatest book ever, there is nothing wrong with curling up with some of the millions of other books available in your local bookstore or library. Whether you like fiction, self-help, how-to, or autobiographies, set a goal to read something that stimulates your mind, carries you to another place, and helps you learn something new and powerful.

#4 Rediscover rest. Most of us don’t get enough sleep, and being deprived of rest makes everything harder. Concentration becomes more difficult. You feel irritable and agitated. Your body is more stressed out. Your health suffers. Resting is both a natural and spiritual principle that pays dividends. If you have been burning the candle at both ends, rediscover the joy of rest, and see how much your mind, body and soul will appreciate it.

#5 Set the atmosphere. I took a walk recently while playing my favorite worship song. The sun seemed to shine brighter, and the tree leaves looked more beautiful, as my perspective and experience were shaped by the music. Worship set the atmosphere for my day. Incorporate worship music, inspirational sermons, uplifting podcasts, and positive things into your day. You can set and shift the atmosphere in your own little world. Why not do it?

Hey, no one avoids trouble or always feels good. Boy, wouldn’t that be nice? However, it is possible to experience joyful moments every day. Most importantly, knowing Christ as your savior is the key, because He is the true source of joy and peace.