Finding Joy in the Little Things

What makes you happy?

Eating Dots and watching the lights twinkle is something that brings me joy.

For years I struggled with how to answer that question. A list of things would always pop into my head, because surely xxx would make everything in the world better. 

I wish I could go back to 13 year-old Heather and tell her that things aren’t going to make everything all better. Or to tell 15 year-old Heather that she shouldn’t be salty because the family got a vacuum cleaner for Christmas because the family really needed one and the money had to come from somewhere. To tell 18 year-old Heather that all her happiness shouldn’t be pushed to the side just because she has a family.

For years I was so down on myself, comparing my life and situation to those around me. I was constantly trying to fit myself into some cookie cutter mold of what I thought happiness should look like. What I never realized that is that not everyone is transparent. Not everyone wears their real life on their sleeve. Smiles can be faked. Someone will always think that your life is better.

“In a world where you can be anything, be yourself.” ~Etta Turner

Seek joy in the everyday, mundane things in life. Do kind things for strangers; hold open the door or greet them with a smile. Trust me, you can’t help but feel all warm and fuzzy inside when you do. And when you find joy, you will find peace and happiness tucked in there as well.

Life isn’t going to be roses and sunshine every day, but when you are true to yourself, no matter what the day brings, you will always be happier.