Miniature Sources of Joy

the possibility of finding little joys in an ordinary day

After decades of living with myself, I know that my emotions can easily dive to the abyss especially when I am juggling multiple responsibilities at work and in my personal life. Through the years, I have learned that my mental health is at its top shape if I am mindful about seeking miniature sources of delights on a regular basis. I refer to them as miniatures because these are activities or things that do not require a lot of preparations, effort, resources, logistics, or financial commitments to materialize.

Today is Saturday and I can honestly tell you that I am absolutely filled with gratitude and energy that will serve as my fuel for the coming week.

To discover yours, I encourage you to reflect on the following question: What are the little things I can easily do to bring me joy? When you have some of the answers, do a few of those as part of your self-care.

What if you do not know what they are yet? Let me tell you how I discovered mine. I write them down every single time I experience them. This is where it is important for you to practice mindfulness and learn to listen to your emotions. As you go through each tiny experience, note the ones that bring you happiness no matter how simple they are. Those are your miniature sources of joy. Use them to lighten your mood on a somber day. Do them when the days feel rough. Do not wait for the big moments to get a mood-booster. Keep those miniature joys in your backpocket and use them whenever you need a pick-me-up!

What were my sources of joys today?

A local coffee shop

On weekends, I open my Google Maps app and search for local coffee shops within driving distance. Today, I was pleasantly surprised to find a new cafe that opened within a five-minute drive.

Photo by Phil Desforges on Unsplash

Nostalgic Main Street

Personally, I love exploring the Main Streets of small towns in the United States because it is an opportunity to support homegrown businesses. Today, the surprise new cafe is situated at one of the most charming main streets I have ever seen and it is nestled side-by-side with an art gallery and a local brewery.

Photo by Michael Steinman on Unsplash

Winter Specials

Their friendly staff served me with an excellent cup of cappuccino with a healthy serving of peppermint on top as part of their Winter specials.

Photo by Anthony Espinosa on Unsplash

Amazing Book to Read from an Asian Author

I visited the public library last week and I was able to grab a copy of Janie Chang’s “The Porcelain Moon”. I highly recommend!

The Porcelain Moon by Janie Chang. Image from @ambereatsbooks

Are you ready to discover yours?

🔖 @Tag me or do a 🔄 restack with your list on a note! I would love to hear (read) from you.