10 Ways to Discover Joy in 2017

home insemination Kit

Let’s be honest: 2016 was a joy-sucking black hole. We lost beloved celebrities, watched friendships fray in the wake of a divisive election, and saw the epic letdown that was Hatchimals. It felt like 2016 was a relentless series of unfortunate events, leaving many of us ready to give it the boot as we approach the new year. I, for one, am eager to wave goodbye and reclaim my happiness, and I bet I’m not alone.

In 2017, my mission is to find pockets of joy amidst the inevitable chaos. I might not have hours to indulge in spa bliss or sunbathe on a pristine beach, but I can definitely carve out time for some simple pleasures. Here are my top ten strategies for cultivating joy this year:

1. Read a Book. Well, a Chapter, at Least.
   Let’s be realistic: I won’t finish a book in one go, but I can manage a chapter daily. Reading brings me happiness, and I’ll whip out my book while waiting in the carpool line if I have to!
2. Volunteer. But Not for the PTA.
   This year taught me that I thrive when volunteering for causes I care about. I’ll be supporting local political candidates and issues that resonate with me to feel empowered.
3. Say No. A Lot.
   I’m over attending events when I’m drained or spending time with those who don’t uplift me. I’ll prioritize cozy nights in, because let’s face it, This Is Us isn’t going to binge-watch itself!
4. Smile More.
   It may sound cliché, but smiling is contagious and enhances our well-being. I’ve made it a point to make eye contact and smile at strangers—no creepy vibes, just genuine kindness. A smile costs nothing and is priceless.
5. Learn People’s Names.
   Everyone has a story. Knowing someone’s name fosters connection and understanding. Recently, I had a delightful chat with a cashier named Lisa—next time I go back, I know she’ll be happy to see me!
6. Bite Your Tongue on Social Media.
   Scrolling through Facebook can be infuriating, but engaging in negativity isn’t mandatory. Just keep scrolling or use the “Unfollow” option to maintain your sanity.
7. Step Away from Social Media.
   Real life is happening outside your device! Take a break and enjoy the world around you. Use that time to read, volunteer, or do something that soothes your soul.
8. Cultivate Close Friendships. With Actual Phone Calls.
   When was the last time you called a friend just to chat? Texts are great, but nothing beats hearing a friend’s voice. I’m committed to picking up the phone more often because laughter is the best medicine.
9. Have More Intimacy.
   Yes, life is busy, and yes, you might feel tired. But connecting with your partner is essential. A little intimacy can work wonders for stress relief, and hey, we all deserve a little pleasure!
10. Let Yourself Off the Hook.
    Perfection is a myth. It’s perfectly okay to admit that some days, just keeping the kids alive is a victory. The laundry can wait while you enjoy a glass of wine or read to your toddler. Embrace the little wins!

Let’s toast to finding joy in 2017 and leave the dumpster fire of 2016 behind! I’m ready for a kinder, gentler year—or at least one where we don’t have to worry about overpriced toys that don’t hatch.

For more insights on this journey, check out our other blog posts, like this one on home insemination, and for authoritative information, visit Make A Mom and NICHD.

Summary:

2016 was a year to forget, but 2017 offers a fresh start. By reading more, volunteering, prioritizing joy, and connecting with others, we can reclaim happiness in our lives. Let’s embrace the little things that bring us joy and leave the past behind.