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Taking Joy in the Simple Things

Life is full of stressful situations. Working, going to school, being social, maintaining your family life... it's easy to forget about the little things. 

Acknowledge nature by taking a walk. Enjoy the sensory experience of touching a flower, tree bark or a leaf.

You can't change what you won't admit. Be honest with yourself and try to discover your own core values.

Be thankful for the little things, like waking up in the sun or someone smiling as you pass them. Everything has value.

Choose a sense and experience it to its fullest. Usually ignore smells? Whenever you remember, take a deep breath.

Make a craft for someone. It doesn't matter how old you are. Everyone enjoys a handmade gift or card.

Search for ways to feel joy-- embrace the things in your life that have made you happy; people, events, hobbies...

Reduce your workload by 30%, increase your fun load by 30% and you will increase your productivity by 10 000%

Next time you have a truly random thought, embrace your mind's ability to create so fantastically and quickly.

Take the scenic route. Life is about more than getting from point A to B in the shortest time.

Don't wait until New Year's to write your resolutions. Want to change something in your life? Do it today.

Give a friend or family member a real hug. No quick half-holds; take your time and show them you care.

Close your eyes for a minute and just feel your heart beat. There is nothing more real or honest in the world.

Buy a notebook and just write. Enjoy making the first mark in a beautiful book and try not to over-think it.

Lots to do, but need a break? Take your work with you to a cafe with Wi-Fi and enjoy a treat while you work.

Find somewhere to volunteer your time rather than your money-- choose to spend your time with people who need it.

Keep an eye on VIA Rail, Greyhound, or another means of travel. Look for a cheap deal and take an impulsive trip.

Feel like you need to cry? Go ahead. Sometimes we just need to let the pain out. Relax and let yourself feel.

Write a positive message on a post-it and leave it for someone to find. Imagine how it could brighten someone's day.

Get home from a cold walk outside? Jump into a warm shower and feel the cold melt away.

Carry your camera with you everywhere. Share your pictures with those you love (and the world if you want).

Give yourself permission to be happy. Finding joy is easier when you let yourself believe it is possible.

Stay snuggled in your bed for an extra minute. Enjoy the warm comfort and use it as fuel for a great day.

Stop multi-tasking! It's less productive and less enjoyable to split your focus. If something's worth your time, do it right.

Try to find a farmer's market to buy goods at. Enjoy the atmosphere, the people and the fresh goodies.

Life gets hectic. Make sure you're where you want to be; if you're not, do what you can to change that.

Don't be afraid to ask questions you have throughout the day. No matter how old you are, it's never too late to learn.

Dance just to feel your body move. Don't worry about how silly you look. Crank the music and have fun!

Go for a walk with no destination to see where you end up (you might want to bring a GPS with you, just in case).

Plan a random get-together. Pick a theme and have everyone bring something to share. Just have fun!

Take a field trip somewhere that makes your heart sing; the forest, the mall, it's up to you!