The Real Chic Life

The other day while watching Lonely Planet on Netflix (a comfort romance movie starring Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth) the concept of The Swing Route came up. In football it’s a move that’s used when no other options are open. But it’s also used as a metaphor for making a simple decision when big plans aren’t working. It’s a way to shift your focus to small, calculated actions to keep the momentum going. Laura’s character describes it as ‘finding hope in a big old mess’. That made me think of a concept I had heard before- Joy Spotting. It’s based on the notion that in the midst of stressful or challenging times, we often overlook the small things that bring us joy. Joy spotting is a simple practice that invites us to slow down, tune in, and appreciate the beauty around us—no matter how fleeting. Think of it as a mini treasure hunt for happiness, a way to recharge and refocus. Here’s how you can start cultivating joy spotting in your everyday routine.

1. Redefine Joy

I love a sun drenched island vacation or a decadent Michelin star worthy meal, but joy spotting doesn’t require grand gestures or exotic vacations. It’s about finding happiness in the little moments, like the warmth of sunlight on your face, the sound of birds chirping in the morning, or the satisfaction of finishing a good book. The key is redefining joy as something accessible and abundant, rather than rare and fleeting.

2. Look for Patterns

As you go about your day, start looking for joyful patterns. It could be the way the sunlight dances on a wall, a beautifully blooming flower, or the friendly smile of a stranger. Once you start noticing these patterns, you’ll find joy popping up everywhere. Keep a small notebook or use your phone to document these moments—taking note of your surroundings can help you spot joy more consistently.

3. Engage Your Senses

Sometimes joy is about noticing what’s right in front of us. Focus on engaging all your senses: the smell of fresh coffee, the feel of a soft blanket, the taste of a favorite snack, or the sound of laughter. Mindfully tuning into your senses can help you savor everyday moments and make the ordinary feel extraordinary.

4. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude and joy are closely intertwined. Each day, reflect on one or two things you’re grateful for—no matter how small. Gratitude transforms mundane moments into meaningful ones, and it helps you approach life with a positive mindset that naturally leads to joy.

5. Share Your Joy

Joy is even more meaningful when it’s shared. Take a moment to share something that made you smile with someone else. A quick text, a photo, or a simple conversation about what brought you happiness can amplify the effect, creating a ripple of positivity for others, too.

6. Make Time for Play

Playfulness is at the heart of joy spotting. Embrace moments of spontaneity and fun, whether it’s dancing in your living room, trying a new creative hobby, or even jumping into puddles on a rainy day. Letting go of routine—even briefly—can open up a world of delight.

Why Joy Spotting Matters

Joy spotting is a practice that builds resilience. By intentionally seeking out and celebrating small moments of happiness, you create a buffer against stress, build emotional strength, and foster a positive mindset. In essence, joy spotting helps you reconnect with a sense of wonder and peace that often gets buried under daily obligations.

Start Your Own Joy Spotting Journey

Next time you feel overwhelmed, pause and ask yourself: What in this moment could bring me joy? Soon, joy spotting will become second nature, and you’ll discover how a simple shift in perspective can fill your day with countless, joyful moments. So start today—because happiness isn’t something to wait for; it’s something to uncover, one little moment at a time.

What joyful moment have you spotted today? I’d love to hear about how you find joy in small moments too.

Until Next Post, 

xo Tonya Parker