Finding Joy in the Holidays, One Moment at a Time

Why small joys matter

Small joys matter because they keep us grounded and grateful, even when life feels chaotic. Without those little moments, how can we truly appreciate the big ones?

For me, spreading small joys—like a random act of kindness—brings immense happiness. Whether it’s buying coffee for someone in line or surprising a friend with a thoughtful gesture, the joy I feel from making someone’s day is unmatched.

And guess what? That joy is contagious. It’s science—dopamine and all that good stuff!

Here’s the thing: if we focus on the negatives (money struggles, the need for perfection), we’ll keep attracting more negativity into our lives. But when we shift our focus to the positives, even the smallest joys, our mindset starts to change for the better.

Start small. Little joys can add up in a big way.

Simple ways to spread joy

For Others

• Give a genuine compliment: Whether it’s someone’s holiday sweater, hairstyle, or energy, a kind word can go a long way.
• Donate what you can: Gently used clothes, toys, or even a little extra cash can mean the world to someone in need this season.
• Surprise someone: Buy coffee for a friend, send a heartfelt thank-you message, or just show up for someone who could use a little extra love right now. (For me, coffee is always a win—hint hint. 😉)
• Be present: Sometimes, people just need someone to truly listen. The holidays can be hard, and your time and empathy might be the best gift you can give.

For Yourself

• Self-care is a must: Pull out your favorite hobby, cozy up with a holiday (or non-holiday) movie, and treat yourself to something simple that makes you happy. For me, that’s diamond art, kitty cuddles, and a warm drink. Bliss!
• Slow down: If life feels overwhelming, take a deep breath and appreciate the simple things—like holiday lights, fresh snow, or even your cat’s adorable toe beans.
• Practice gratitude: Write down three things you’re thankful for. They don’t have to be groundbreaking. For example:
  1. I woke up today.
  2. I’m grateful for my cats.
  3. I’m grateful for my home.
     See? Easy peasy!

Embrace imperfection

Here’s the truth: the holidays don’t have to be perfect. Perfection is overrated—and honestly, it’s exhausting.

If you’re constantly chasing the “perfect” holiday, chances are you’ll end up more stressed than joyful. I’ve seen it happen so many times: when things don’t go exactly as planned, it can spiral into frustration and sadness.

Let go of the need for everything to be flawless. Life is messy, and that’s okay. I’m still learning to go with the flow, and it’s not always easy, but it’s so worth it. When I start to feel overwhelmed, I remind myself to breathe, be present, and try again.

The holidays can be chaotic—life is chaotic—but taking a moment to pause and reset can make all the difference.

The Halfway reset -- intentions for the rest of the season

Now that we’re halfway through the holiday season, it’s a good time to reflect:

• What’s gone well for you so far?
• What’s most important to prioritize moving forward?

Focus on creating meaningful memories, finding joy, and connecting with loved ones. Those are the moments you’ll treasure—not the perfectly decorated tree or the expensive gifts.

Closing