Everyday Joy

JoyFULL on the streets of London

A client said something in a final session recently that stopped me in my tracks:

“I’m choosing to pursue everyday joy—not as an afterthought, but as a reason for being.”

This really made me stop and think!

If you’ve followed me for a while or subscribe to my newsletter, you’ll know I often talk about cultivating joy. But I’ll be honest—there are times when I’ve found myself chasing things that make me happier in the moment, rather than staying anchored in joy. So hearing those words from my client was a powerful reminder.

I believe joy is a gift that we can all access. It’s something deep-rooted and unshaken by circumstances unlike happiness which relies on things going our way and let’s be honest, life doesn’t always play ball. Joy on the other hand, is grounded in contentment, a quiet confidence that even when life is messy, there’s something steady and whole inside of you. For me, joy shows up when I slow down and appreciate the now; I’m alive, I have shelter, I have breath in my body, and it’s in that noticing of what is, rather than what’s missing that joy blooms, as the body responds and it changes the brain chemistry.

A scripture that often comes to mind for me here is from 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18:

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

 For me this is a powerful reminder that joy, prayer, and gratitude are not just responses—they’re daily postures no matter what’s happening around me.

So here are some top tips to make every day joy the main event, not an afterthought:

Practice gratitude - Gratitude isn’t fluffy—it’s fuel. It grounds you in what truly matters and helps you keep going when things get tough. There’s always something to be thankful for, even if it’s small.

Be present in the now - We live in a future-focused world—always planning, always rushing. But joy lives in the now. Notice your surroundings, breathe deeply, soak it in. The present moment is powerful.

Find your ‘why’ - Purpose isn’t just one big “life calling.” It evolves. Look for the meaning in what you’re doing right now. The small things that align with your values matter. You matter. That’s enough.

Invite joyful self-care - Self-care doesn’t have to be fancy. It can be a well-made cup of tea, clean sheets, a short walk in the sunshine. Give yourself permission to enjoy your life. These little rituals create space for joy.

Show kindness and compassion - Doing good feels good. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, light up your brain and someone else’s day. Joy is contagious that way.

Say no to toxic positivity - Let’s be clear—joy isn’t pretending everything’s fine. It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or overwhelmed. Those feelings are valid. But even in the tough stuff, there’s often a flicker of light. Joy can still be there, waiting.

Stop comparing yourself to others - Comparison is the thief of joy. Your story is yours. You’re not on the same timeline as anyone else. Don’t compare your middle chapter to someone else’s highlight reel.

Reconnect to What You Believe - For me, reconnecting with God has been a huge source of joy. Whatever your beliefs, connect to something bigger than yourself. That connection can lift and centre you in ways nothing else can.

Joy doesn’t have to be the reward at the end of the tunnel. It can be the reason we move through the tunnel at all. Let’s make joy a way of life—not a bonus.