Struggling to Stay Positive? These 31 Simple Practices Can Help You Find Joy in Tough Times
2025 is doing the most.
The world feels like it’s spinning faster, and not always in the right direction. Between relentless news cycles, rising workplace burnout, and the emotional toll of global uncertainty, it's no wonder so many people are feeling stretched thin.
In times like these, joy can feel like a distant concept.
But the thing is, joy is a necessity—especially now. It's the light that cuts through darkness and helps you find peace amidst chaos.
Joy doesn't ignore the hard stuff; it coexists with it.
So, whether you're leading a team through uncertain times, navigating personal challenges, or simply trying to make it through the day, here are 31 simple ways to invite joy into your life. Sometimes the small, intentional acts are the very thing that can help you reconnect with yourself and the world around you:
- Smile — even if it's just to yourself.
- Hug a loved one — and see who can hold on the longest.
- Call someone you care about — just because.
- Dance like no one's watching — and don't worry if they are.
- Sing along to your favorite song — loudly and proudly.
- Forgive someone — including yourself.
- Send a handwritten note — it means more than you think.
- Practice daily gratitude — list three things you're thankful for.
- Take a walk in nature — and soak in your surroundings.
- Be silly — let your inner child play.
- Sit in stillness — even just for five minutes.
- Reflect on lessons learned — growth often comes from challenges.
- Build something — a puzzle, a model, or even a sandwich.
- Help someone achieve a goal — their success can be your joy.
- Create art — no talent required.
- Plant something — watching it grow is rewarding.
- Reconnect with an old friend — reignite that bond.
- Declutter a space — a tidy area can bring peace.
- Limit news consumption — protect your mental space.
- Pursue a passion project — even if it's just for fun.
- Express love — say "I love you" more often.
- Thank your parents or guardians — acknowledge their role in your life.
- Mentor someone — share your knowledge and experience.
- Watch a sunrise or sunset — nature's daily masterpiece.
- Pray or meditate — connect with something greater.
- Release the need for approval — trust your path.
- Try something new — break the routine.
- Let go of control — embrace the flow of life.
- Laugh…hard — it's healing.
- Express gratitude to a higher power — there’s always something to be grateful for.
- Celebrate small wins — every step forward counts.
Remember, joy isn't always about grand gestures; more often than not, it's about finding light in the little things.
By finding ways to sprinkle these simple practices into your daily routine, you can push through to the other side of hard things with renewed energy and a deeper sense of purpose. Wishing you joy on the journey…
What small act of joy would you add to this list?
Share in the comments. Thanks for reading!
At Soul Therapy Media, we help organizations bring more joy and soul into how they show up—internally and externally. We do this through intentional branding, inspired events, and corporate wellness experiences that energize teams and build cultures people love to be a part of. If you’re looking for ways to support your team’s growth and well-being, let’s connect: connect@soultherapymedia.com









