Wake Up Soul…It’s Time to Rise!
Hello? Are you there? Knock, Knock. It’s Me. Your Soul. I just wanted to remind you that there is this little three-letter word that can help you RISE on any occasion! WHAT??? I know, I know. Impossible, right? Ummmm, no. It is just THREE letters! Wait for it…
JOY!
That’s right, everyone. Here at Rise Like Rudy, we want you to know that happiness resides in pure JOY! The great thing about it is that it isn’t too hard to find if you open your soul, mind, and heart to it. It doesn’t have to be some huge thing where you change your whole mindset or situation all at once. Remember, we talk about taking one step at a time. Sometimes that’s just baby steps. Sometimes it’s just getting through one minute at a time.
Small Steps, Massive Shifts
So why not start with the simple stuff? The tiniest joys. The baby steps. One small thing. One small move. I know, I know — “find joy in the little things” sounds like something embroidered on a throw pillow. But maybe there’s a reason we keep seeing it everywhere. (Cue a dramatic shoulder shrug — or if you’re a fellow Ohio State fan, make that a Bosa shrug. You know the one.)
So, what are some of these “little things” that bring joy, you ask? Honestly, there are so many, it’s hard to know where to start! But here’s the key: don’t go searching for something huge or life-changing. These are the small, everyday moments that spark joy — and once you start noticing them, they fill you with a sense of gratitude. Over time, they begin to add up. Joy spreads. It’s contagious in the best way. Happiness is a beautiful feeling… and joy? Joy is its best friend.
Gratitude in Small Sips
I don’t know about you, but I live for that first sip of coffee in the morning — warm and comforting. I’m blessed to share it with my husband, and it’s one of my favorite parts of the day. But even if you’re sipping solo, there’s joy in that too. There’s something special about enjoying your own quiet moment. Even if you aren’t a coffee drinker, just let that first sip of something be yours. A small, simple way to start your day with joy.
Escape. Be Mindful. Return Renewed
Take a little time to read a good book. Maybe even get lost in it for a bit. And if you can’t quite find your way back right away? Even better. Let that feeling of escape inspire you to take a walk outside. Breathe in the air, look around, and really notice the world around you. Just be there. BE PRESENT. We’re so used to rushing through the day, checking off lists in our heads, that we forget actually to be in the moment. But maybe that’s where the real joy is — in just being present.
Joy From the Driver’s Seat
Grab your keys and head out the door. Even if a big adventure isn’t in the plans today, remember that simple moments can hold the most joy. Whether you’re on your way to work, taking the kids to school, or picking up your coffee, take a moment to notice what’s around you. See any animals? Clouds drifting by? The blue sky, sunshine, or the flowers and trees lining the road? Or a brilliant red cardinal swooping across the road? Sometimes, it’s the little things you notice out the window that bring an unexpected smile to your face.
Unexpected Joy, Even in a Neighbor’s Wagging Tail
Don’t have a dog or pet to give you joy? What about the neighbor? I enjoy my neighbor’s dogs, the three of them always look like they’re about to get into some mischief. My mom’s neighbor’s dog, Henry, is the cutest little guy who is always excited to see me. Just a quick hello and a little wag of their tails, or a quick little snuggle, can fuel me up!
Choose to See What’s Already Here
We’re surrounded by countless little things every day, but to truly experience them, we have to be present — to notice them, to let them become part of our joy. On tough days, this can feel like a monumental task. But trust me, it’s worth it. The reward of choosing joy, even in the smallest moments, is so much greater than the effort it takes. Over time, that habit of noticing and being grateful for the little things can transform your entire perspective. That habit can help you RISE!
Need a visual for inspiration? Here is a great list I found at Simplify, Create, Inspire of simple things in life that can bring you joy.
So here’s your gentle reminder: joy doesn’t have to be loud or grand. Sometimes, it whispers through the smallest things — if you’re willing to notice.
Let’s RISE, one small joy at a time!
