creating a joy list

I saw a quote once that said something along the lines of "Create a list of things that make you happy. Create a list of things you do every day. Compare the lists and adjust accordingly." Now I didn't come up with this idea - I am simply repurposing here and sharing with you my take on it.

Okay, so the general idea is you take some time to think about what makes you happy and what you wish you were doing more often - then write them down.

I try to incorporate as many of the items on this list into my daily routine as possible and sometimes I need to think outside of the box to make it happen, especially with the current state of things and spending more time at home.

I reference this list when I feel bored, lose sight of what's important to me, or feel that I just need to spend my time differently. If I'm looking for something to do on Saturday I'll reference this list for inspiration. I keep a list of these on my phone in the notes section, and in my journal for quick reference.

Here's mine - I hope it brings you inspiration. Let me know some of your ideas in the comments below!

Joy list:

1. Sitting in a cafe or local coffee shop and soaking up the atmosphere/ treating myself to a cappuccino and a treat. This is one of my all time favorite things and I used to go to a cafe once a week on my lunch break to journal (and people watch honestly). I now make cappuccino at home and play a Cafe playlist on Spotify every morning and it is the perfect way to start my day.
2. Exploring a new small town and going to all the local spots even if it is just to window shop. Still possible! I reserve one weekend a month for me, my partner Steven, and our dog Spyro to explore.
3. Spending time in nature whether that is kayaking, hiking, forest bathing, gardening, etc. I get outside even in January! Brrr but so worth the fresh air. 
4. Aesthetically pleasing decor - artwork, fuzzy pillows, textiles, anything that makes for a great atmosphere. I light candles daily, burn Palo Santo to clear the air, and keep my house filled with plants.
5. Feeling luxurious and pampered. Shopping, doing my nails, taking a bath, getting my hair done, buying new makeup, wearing perfume, masks and serums, etc. Some of these are easier than others right now and some are more expensive than others. I often ask myself how I can recreate a spa like atmosphere from my own home.
6. Feeling inspired and spending time in my studio creating. SO IMPORTANT for my mental health. I have a dedicated art making space and sometimes I just go in there to write because it just screams inspiration to me.
7. Farmers Markets and buying fresh produce, herbs, etc. Markets are my jam. Always. 
8. Aromatherapy - candles, oils, etc. just give me all the scents. I have a diffuser that I run every day while I am working from home and I love the vibe it creates. My go to oil blend is orange, peppermint, and black pepper. 
9. Seeking out the perfect photo opportunity. Enjoying new pop up museums, girls trips, exploring and getting great photos. It's hard to travel right now, and girls trips haven't been happening BUT I make it a point to go for a walk daily and try to capture small moments. 
10. Dog park with Spyro. This is a newfound love for me, but it brings me so much joy. There is absolutely nothing like watching your little creature running as fast as they possibly can and smiling while doing it. No really he smiles the entire time. 
11. Spending time in a health food store, naturopathic space - learning more about nutrition/herbs trying new things. This is something that I really do love and enjoy. I am very interested in Naturopathic medicine and read a lot about it. I try reflexology from home and am learning more about natural remedies all the time. 

So there you have it. A few things that bring me joy and I try to incorporate daily. I am a typical Taurus at heart it appears and like a comfortable, calm, beautiful space. Give me all the candles, plants, and fluffy pillows you can find. What's on your list?