5 Everyday Things That Bring Me Joy

joy

What are 5 everyday things that bring you happiness?

A Women’s Journey in Pakistan

As a 40-year-old mother of two spirited girls aged 10 and 6, living in a combined family system in Pakistan, my days are a whirlwind of responsibilities, expectations, and small moments of solace. Like many women in similar setups, I often struggle with the immense pressure of pleasing my in-laws, managing my children’s upbringing, and fulfilling endless duties—all while my own health takes a backseat. Yet, amid the chaos, there are small pockets of joy that bring light to my everyday life. Here are five simple but powerful things that make my heart smile, even in my most challenging moments.

joy

1. The Laughter of My Daughters

No matter how stressed or exhausted I feel, the sound of my girls laughing instantly uplifts my spirits. Their little giggles over shared jokes or silly games remind me of the beauty of childhood and the strength of a mother’s love. Watching them grow, learn, and thrive despite my struggles gives me a sense of purpose and joy that no words can describe.

Tip for joy: I try to set aside 20 minutes daily to play with them—be it a quick round of Ludo or simply singing silly songs together. These moments make me forget my worries, even if just for a while.

2. The Aroma of a Good Cup of Chai

In the midst of the endless tasks, there’s one ritual that feels like a brief escape: my afternoon cup of chai. The process of brewing the tea, letting its aroma fill the kitchen, and savoring the first sip is therapeutic. It’s a small indulgence that brings me back to myself, reminding me to pause and breathe.

Tip for joy: Pairing my chai time with a favorite biscuit or sitting by a window for fresh air makes it even more special.

3. The Solace in Early Morning Silence

Before the rest of the household awakens and the day’s demands begin, I cherish the stillness of early mornings. It’s my time to reconnect with myself, whether through a quick dua (prayer), a moment of gratitude, or just sitting in silence. In a life filled with noise and expectations, this quiet time feels like a gift.

Tip for joy: Even a 10-minute meditation or simple breathing exercise during this time helps center me for the day ahead.

4. Acts of Kindness That Go Unnoticed

Living in a combined family system, it’s easy to feel invisible or unappreciated at times. However, I find a surprising amount of joy in small acts of kindness—whether it’s preparing a favorite dish for someone or helping my mother-in-law with a task. While I may not always hear “thank you,” the satisfaction of doing something meaningful brings me inner peace.

Tip for joy: I try to remind myself that my worth isn’t tied to validation from others. Doing kind deeds without expectation makes them even more fulfilling.

5. The Beauty of Small Wins

In my journey, every small accomplishment feels monumental. Whether it’s completing a chore on time, receiving a hug from my daughters, or finishing a personal task like reading a book chapter, these small victories remind me that I’m doing my best, even when it doesn’t feel like enough.

Tip for joy: I celebrate these moments, no matter how trivial they seem. Writing them down in a journal or sharing them with a close friend makes them feel more significant.

A Gentle Reminder to Myself (and Others)

Life in a combined family system often comes with unique challenges—balancing cultural expectations, managing relationships, and meeting everyone’s needs while sidelining your own. But even in the most stressful days, there’s always something to hold on to, something to cherish. These everyday joys, as small as they may seem, are what keep me going.

If you, like me, are feeling overwhelmed, here’s my message to you: Take a moment to find those simple joys that bring you back to life. It could be the smell of a favorite meal, the warmth of a loved one’s hug, or even the brief escape of a good book. Remember, you are more than the expectations placed upon you—you are a source of love, strength, and infinite value.


This is my story. What are the little things that bring you joy in your everyday life? Let’s start a conversation and remind ourselves that we’re not alone in this journey. 🌸


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