Happiness in Small, Unconventional Places

Chaos is constant. Life doesn't always hand us quiet mornings or perfectly lined-up calendars. I've discovered that happiness doesn't actually need quiet or perfection. You can find it anywhere! Even in the cracks of our everyday lives.

Sometimes it's in the sunrise. Or sunset. Sometimes it's hearing your kids out playing in the yard. Or watching you dog chase a butterfly.

One that's special for me is seeing a cardinal. Every time I see one fly by, it reminds me of my son. He is a huge Cardinal fan. That always makes me smile.

And then last week I was on my way to work. Sitting in traffic. Again. Thank you Nashville traffic. I was stopped at a stop light waiting for the light to turn green. I turned my head away for a moment and then looked back. And right in front of my eyes was a dragonfly. It was hovering right in front of my face, looking directly at me through the windshield. In that moment, I smiled. Life slowed down a little bit.

Remember that happiness doesn't just live in the "big" moments. A lot of times it sneaks in quietly, through the tiniest details. The way the sunlight shines through a window. One of my cats curly up around my feel.

These are moments that might seem too ordinary to count. But when I let myself really notice them, I realize they're these are the things that complete my day.

Coaching insight: Try this practice with me. At the end of each day, jot down one small moment of happiness you noted. Don't overthink it. It could be a smile, or a song, or something the sun warming your face. Then enjoy the happiness of the moment.

Much love and gratitude to all,

Ruthie 🩶