Have you ever looked back on a week and thought, Where did the time go? You were busy, sure, crossing things off the to-do list, handling responsibilities, maybe even squeezing in a workout or two. But did you actually enjoy any of it? Or did it all blur together into one big, exhausting loop of “wake up, do things, go to bed, repeat”?
I get it. It’s easy to slip into autopilot, especially when life feels like a never-ending cycle of work, errands and responsibilities. But I’ve learned that happiness isn’t just about big milestones or grand vacations. It’s in the tiny, seemingly insignificant moments, the ones we rush past without a second thought.
So let’s talk about how to actually notice and enjoy those small, everyday joys. Because, honestly? They’re what life is made of.
The Magic of the Mundane
The other day, I stepped outside in the evening and just stood there for a second. The air was crisp and I could hear the faint hum of crickets in the distance. Someone in the neighborhood was grilling and the smoky, savory scent made my stomach growl.
Nothing groundbreaking happened. No life-changing epiphanies. Just a quiet moment where I actually felt present.
And that’s the thing, life is full of these tiny, magical moments but we bulldoze right past them. The sound of rain hitting the window when you drift off to sleep. That feeling when you slide into bed with fresh sheets (seriously, top-tier life experience).The satisfying crunch of boots on fresh snow. That first deep stretch in the morning. The sound of your favorite song coming on shuffle. That satisfying moment when you cross the last thing off your to-do list.
Noticing these things doesn’t take extra time. It just takes a little awareness.
Savouring the Small Stuff
Slow Down (Just a Little)
I’m not saying you need to quit your job and go live in the woods. But can you take a few extra seconds to enjoy something instead of rushing through it?
Instead of inhaling lunch while scrolling on your phone, actually taste your food. Instead of zoning out on your commute, notice the trees, the sky or the random dog sticking its head out of a car window (peak happiness).
Romanticize Your Routine
Your daily routine might not be exciting but adding little luxuries to your day makes such a difference.
Light a scented candle while you read. Put on a playlist that matches your mood while you get ready for the day. Use your favourite mug instead of the random one at the back of the cupboard. Buy yourself flowers at the grocery store. Put on cozy socks straight from the dryer. Use the “good” blankets even if it’s just a regular Tuesday. Take an extra minute to enjoy the warm water in the shower instead of rushing to the next thing. Small tweaks, big mood shift.
Laugh More (Even at Dumb Things)
Life is too short to be serious all the time. Laugh at your own awkward moments. Find a ridiculous meme that makes you snort-laugh and send it to a friend. Watch that comfort show for the hundredth time because it still makes you smile.
The other day, I was reorganizing my kitchen and managed to knock an entire stack of Tupperware lids onto the floor. It was so loud and for a second, I was annoyed. Then I just started laughing. Because really, what else can you do?
Practice the “One Good Thing” Rule
At the end of each day, think of one good thing that happened. Could be big (nailed a project at work), could be tiny (finally found that one hit wonder you were looking for). Doesn’t matter, just find one.
It’s not about ignoring the hard stuff. It’s about training your brain to notice the good alongside the chaos.
The Takeaway
Finding joy in the everyday isn’t about having more time. It’s about using the time you already have a little differently. Slowing down just enough to notice, appreciate and actually feel the good stuff.
What’s one small moment you can savour today?
Let me know in the comments!
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Crawford Coaching 
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