In a recent social media post, renowned author Sophie Merritt, known for her insightful works including the popular memoir “Wander, Explore, Live,” introduced an engaging and transformative concept that we should all consider adopting: the Happiness Jar. This simple yet profound practice is quick to implement and has the potential to significantly enhance our outlook on life.
Merritt’s message, which resonated deeply with me, serves as an essential reminder as we move into a new year: every day holds the possibility for joy. The idea is straightforward: each day, jot down a moment that brought you happiness on a small slip of paper. No matter how challenging your day may have been—whether you faced personal struggles, felt overwhelmed with responsibilities, or even encountered distressing situations—there is always a silver lining to be found. It might require some effort to uncover these moments, but they are invariably present.
You might ask yourself, “Why haven’t I been doing this all along?” If you think there are days void of any bright spots, Merritt’s words hold significant wisdom: “There’s always SOMETHING to put in the jar. Even on the crappiest day, there’s a happiest moment—or at least, a least crappy moment. I’ve felt moments of grace and happiness at funerals, in hospitals, and during times of loss. A small act of kindness from a stranger, a warm cup of coffee, or simply the relief of taking off tight shoes can spark joy. Write it down. Toss it in the jar. Keep it forever.”
This insight encourages us to actively seek goodness, even on our worst days. Often, we might feel guilty for experiencing a glimmer of joy amidst hardship. However, acknowledging these moments is crucial—not just for our own well-being but also for setting a positive example for those around us, especially our children. Happiness is contagious; it fosters love and inspires acts of kindness, creating a ripple effect that can brighten someone else’s day.
It’s essential to remember that the moments we cherish cannot be manufactured. For instance, I once caught my son sneaking down the stairs with candy in hand, declaring, “Mom, I saved my Advent treats to give to Anna for Christmas! It’s a surprise!” In that moment, I was about to reprimand him for getting out of bed, but instead, I was reminded of the pure, unselfish joy that can emerge even when frustration looms. That memory went straight into my jar, a treasured reminder of the beauty in unexpected moments.
Reflecting on old photographs can evoke forgotten memories and remind us of the joys we’ve experienced. Similarly, filling a Happiness Jar allows us to encapsulate our moments of joy in words, preserving them for the future. By training ourselves to notice the good, we can cultivate a mindset that recognizes beauty even during life’s darker times. Whether the world feels heavy with sorrow or personal challenges seem insurmountable, small joys persist—like spotting a vibrant red cardinal or sharing a kind word with a stranger.
As we embark on this journey, let’s commit to recognizing the small joys each day brings. By documenting these memories, we create tangible reminders that life, despite its challenges, also offers much to celebrate.
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In summary, keeping a Happiness Jar encourages us to embrace the positive moments in life, reminding us that joy can coexist with hardship. By recognizing and documenting these moments, we foster gratitude and cultivate a brighter perspective.
Keyphrase: Happiness Jar
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