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53 Simple Pleasures for Lasting Happiness

53 Simple Pleasures for Lasting Happiness

INSIDE: These days, simple pleasures feel hard to come by, but in reality, we are surrounded by them. We just need to remember to engage in the simple things in life because that’s where we create memorable moments. This article provides 53 simple pleasures for lasting happiness.

When I look at the life my kids are having compared to the life I had as a kid, it kind of saddens me.


Don’t get me wrong; my kids have an incredible life.


But, people aren’t enjoying enough simple pleasures these days, and kids don’t even know what they’re missing.


Things are so different…


  • Video games and movies are so elaborate that anything simpler is undesirable.
  • Less time is spent exploring and using their imaginations.
  • Kids have smart phones at the age of 10 (or even less).
  • If they aren’t plugged in, they don’t know what to do with themselves (neither do adults anymore).


It’s not their fault, and as parents, there isn’t even that much we can do about it because technology is such a part of life these days.


This article isn’t about kids getting unplugged, but it is about remembering to engage in the simple pleasures in life.


Because even to this day, simple pleasures are typically the most memorable experiences.


It really is the simple things that can bring us the most joy in life…


So here are 53 simple pleasures to engage in for lasting happiness.


Singing in the Car


You know the feeling… you’re driving down the highway, no one is watching (or listening) and you sing at the top of your lungs to the song playing on the radio.


It feels so good to just express yourself fully without worrying what anyone thinks, doesn’t it?


Music is fun and invigorating, and we should enjoy it as much as possible.


Taking a Road Trip Like It’s 1990


If you’re old enough to remember what taking a road trip was like in the nineties, then you understand why I added this to the list.


Road trips were such a blast back then! We didn’t have GPSes, cell phones, or iPods.


What we did have was our mix tapes, our windows rolled down, and our best friends with us… and we felt so “cool.” Talk about incredible memories!


Butterflies


I don’t think there is anyone I know who doesn’t stop and enjoy the beauty of a butterfly as it flutters past them. It’s one of those simple pleasures that puts us all in a state of awe.

Smiling


When we smile, our face lights up, our eyes glisten, and our mood is boosted. We can smile any place, at any time, anywhere.


When others smile at us, it feels good, and we are put at ease. The more smiling you do, the happier you will be, even if you have to fake it till you feel it.


A Day Off


Having an extra day off of work is the bomb, right? We can shed some stress, do something we enjoy, spend time with the people we love, and feel like we get a little breath of fresh air.


When you have a day off, try letting it be an actual day off instead of loading it up with “things you have to get done.” That’s the only way it will be a simple pleasure.


Vacations in the Tropics


Most vacations are pretty awesome, but vacations in the tropics seem to take the cake.


That’s probably because they are the most relaxing vacations. Who doesn’t love floating in a pool with a drink in hand?


Which leads me to the next simple pleasure…


Floating on a Lazy River With a Drink in Hand


If you haven’t been to the Marriott Surf Club in Aruba, trust me, it needs to get added to your bucket list.


All vacations for me are forever ruined because there is simply nothing that will compare (which is okay because I can keep going back there every couple years). The resort has a lazy river, which is where we spend most of our time.


Make sure you bring a float with a cup holder cause floating around all day with a cocktail (or several) is certainly what adds to the pleasure of it!

Family Walks


There is something about taking a family walk after dinner that takes us back to a simpler time. A time when we could enjoy family time together outside without electronics and without everyone going different ways.


Try to schedule at least one family walk a week and watch your family life transform.


Brand New Crayons


I’m a little ridiculous when it comes to this one because I still have my first box of crayons. That aside, I LOVE opening up a new box of crayons and coloring.


Yes, I’m well beyond my childhood years, but coloring will remain one of my simple pleasures, especially when it’s with brand new box of crayons.


Don’t believe me? Here’s my favorite pack of crayons – Try it for yourself!


Snuggling


There’s nothing better than a good snuggle, and the best time to do it is first thing in the morning before you get out of bed.


Have you ever noticed how comfortable you feel lying in your bed in the morning? It’s because you’re in such a relaxed state. That’s when snuggling feels the best.


So before you climb out of bed, snuggle with your partner for at least five minutes – what a great start to the day!

Farm-Fresh Ice Cream


If you’ve had ice cream from a little farm shop, then you know what I’m talking about here! It’s by far the best, creamiest, most delicious (and usually inexpensive) ice cream you can get.


If you have a farm near you who sells ice cream, enjoy this guilty pleasure now and then.


Hanging Out With Your Best Friend


Coming from a person who doesn’t have a ton of friends and who is pretty happy being on my own, I can tell you that spending time with a best friend is very refreshing.


We all need time like this when we can let loose, be ourselves, laugh, engage in our favorite activities together, and chat about life.


Making Snow Angels


If you haven’t made a snow angel recently (or even since you were a child), this is the year to let your inner child out!


Let yourself feel silly and embrace the innocence fun that making a snow angel can bring.


Snow is often a nuisance when you get to be an adult. All the more reason you need to get out and enjoy it!

A Hot Cup of Coffee or Tea


There are coffee drinkers, and there are tea drinkers. Either way, sipping your hot beverage of choice is one of the simple pleasures most of us enjoy on a daily basis.


It’s the whole package that makes it so enjoyable – the aroma, the taste, the warmth, and the effect it has on our nervous systems. Enjoy!


Enjoying Your Favorite Food


It doesn’t matter what it is when we eat our favorite food; it makes us happy. For most people, their favorite food isn’t the healthiest food they could eat. Nevertheless, allow yourself to eat it now and then.


Studies have shown that when we refrain from a certain food, it makes it even more enjoyable the next time we eat it, so you can use this trick to make your favorite food taste even better.


A Good Laugh


Laughter is one of nature’s most available medicines. If we allow it, we can laugh away our stress and anxiety.


Find ways to bring more laughter into your life: watch funny movies, spend time with funny people, pull up comedians on YouTube, read witty books, see the lighter side of life, etc.


Getting a Massage


Massages are one of the best indulgences we can give ourselves.


There is a type of massage for every person. For example, I love shiatsu massage, which is kind of a mixture of acupressure and massage.


Indulge yourself and find the kind you like best – your mind, body, and spirit will thank you for it!

Putting on a Big, Soft Sweat Shirt


There is something about putting on a big, snuggly sweat shirt that just warms the soul. Whether it’s a crisp fall day, a cool summer night, or during a winter storm, it’s definitely one of life’s simple pleasures.


Wearing Boots in the Fall


This is for the women (and I guess for the men who like seeing the women in the boots). Isn’t it fun to pull out your boots and put them on for the first time each fall? It’s one of the things to look forward to as the cool weather starts to come in.


If you haven’t already tried ShoeDazzle, give it a try! They have AMAZING deals for first time buyers and future purchases are extremely reasonable as well. There’s a huge selection and orders are conveniently delivered to your door.


The First Nice Spring Day of the Year


You know that day… it’s the first spring day of the year when it’s so warm that you don’t need a jacket, the sun is shining bright, and all the neighbors are outside.


That’s one of my favorite days of the year. So refreshing and invigorating to get out and enjoy the weather after a long, cold winter inside.


Hayrides


There’s something about the crispness of the air, the quaintness of the setting, and the good old family fun that makes hayrides such a simple pleasure. Whether it’s a haunted hayride or a ride over to the pumpkin patch, it’s certainly something I look forward to each year.


Pedicures


Women often indulge in pedicures, but they are becoming more and more popular for men as well. That’s because we all have feet and they all need some tender loving care!


If you’re going to get a pedicure, make sure you go to a place that gives a foot massage as part of the treatment – you’ll feel like you are in heaven.


Rainbows


I don’t think there’s ever been a person on earth who hasn’t stopped what they’re doing and looked in awe at a rainbow. Even better is when you see a double rainbow!

Nature


It doesn’t matter if you’re hiking in the mountains, sailing on a lake, or laying in your back yard, nature is the ultimate simple pleasure.


Nature is everywhere, yet we often overlook it. When we take a few moments to enjoy the beauty and amazingness that surrounds us, we feel more at peace and connected to the earth.


Walking on the Beach


Walking on the beach right along the edge of the water is certainly one of my favorite things to do, and I think most people would agree. It’s very calming, removing all the stress from your body with each step. It’s especially enjoyable as the sun is setting.


Fire Pits & Fireplaces


A hot, cozy fire is something to be cherished. It brings warmth to your soul and is a fun way to find enjoyment in the cold weather. Whether it’s roasting marshmallows and making smores or snuggling up next to the fireplace at Christmas, sitting by a fire is fun and cozy.


Dancing


Even if you have no rhythm, letting your body move to the beat of the music is invigorating.


If you’re one of those people who never dance in public, try it when you’re by yourself, because it really is gratifying. If you love to dance, make time to do it more often! It’s one of the few exercises that don’t really feel like exercise.


Dinner by Candlelight


Candlelight is the most forgiving lighting available. It makes everything look beautiful, and it is incredibly relaxing. Everyone should enjoy dinner by candlelight several times a month, whether at home or at a restaurant.


Curling Up With a Good Book


If you’re a person who likes to read, you know the joys of curling up with a good book and getting lost in the story. Personal development books are also great! I really love reading first thing in the morning, especially if it’s outside with the rising sun in the crisp air.


Stargazing


When’s the last time you laid down outside with a loved one and just gazed at the stars? This is a simple pleasure that most people don’t take the time for anymore.

Watching & Listening to the Waves Crash Ashore


The rhythmic sound and sight of the waves crashing ashore are simple pleasures that will exist for all eternity.


It’s so easy to zone out while watching the waves and fall asleep while listening to them. If you don’t live near the ocean, there’s an app for that!


Picnics


On those precious lazy Sundays that are so few and far between, one of my favorite things to do is to pack a picnic and go to the park.


Pull out a blanket and enjoy your feast with your family, especially while watching ducks swim in a lake.


Cookouts


Cookouts are such an American classic. From the smell of the grill to the distinctive grilled flavors to the enjoyment of eating outside, cooking out is a simple pleasure we should be enjoying all summer long.


Hot Showers


I love a nice hot shower, especially after a day at the beach or after a hard day at work. Ladies, make sure you indulge it up with sugar or salt scrubs, home-made soaps, and natural bath products.


Hot Baths


Even better than a hot shower is a hot bath, especially if you can enjoy it in a Jacuzzi tub or at least make it a bubble bath. I prefer to make sure it’s extra relaxing by using a bath pillow and a bath tray to put my book, candle, and wine on.


The Innocence of Children


We can all appreciate the innocence of children.


They are so full of wonder and curiosity – if only life was that exciting to us! They don’t worry what others think – how freeing to just BE! They cry when they feel like crying – how much we wish we could do that, right?


Christmas Magic


Remember when you were a child and Christmas was the most magical thing? You waited for it all year long and when it was finally there, you almost couldn’t contain your excitement.


There is something about Christmas time that is just so magical, especially if you can see it through the eyes of children.

Sunrises


Have you ever gotten up super early just to watch the sunrise? If not, give it a try one day. Plan to sip coffee with your partner, dog, or whoever wants to go with you, and enjoy one of the universe’s magnificent daily happenings (it’s a shame we miss out on it pretty much our whole lives).


Sunsets


Have you seen a vibrant beautiful sunset recently? If not, it’s most likely because you’re usually inside at sunset or you aren’t noticing.


Make an appoint to know what time sunset is in your location and to catch it more often. It’s a daily opportunity to be in awe of the beauty that surrounds us.


Wine


If you love wine like me, this one has to be on your simple pleasures list. There is something about wine that is just so simple, and wonderful, and fun, and relaxing, and wonderful (yes I said that twice). You get me right?


Chocolate


Thank God for the cocoa bean, am I right?


Enough said.


Cheesecake (or whatever your dessert of choice is)


Like cheesecake, some desserts are just so decadent, so creamy, and so heavenly that they have to be on the list of simple pleasures. Enjoy them in moderation, but make sure you enjoy them.

A Baby Laughing


Babies laugh at the silliest things, and it’s so gratifying to experience. If you need a pick me up, just pull up some YouTube videos of babies laughing, and you’ll be good to go.


Cookies Fresh Out of the Oven


Ahhh, the soft, warm, melt-in-your-mouth wonderfulness of cookies that are fresh out of the oven. Right?


The Perfect Pen


Some people will look at this one and go, “What?” For the other people – you get me right?


I love a great pen – so fun to write with. It makes me want to journal, and it makes my handwriting beautiful. This is my favorite ball point pen – it writes so smooth and the ink is infused with a hint of color. These are my favorite rolling ball pens – so fun for drawing doodles as you write.


Sleeping In


This is particularly enjoyable if you are a parent or someone who rarely gets to sleep in. As a sleep deprived mother of a baby who has taken nursing at night to new levels, I can attest to this one!


Freshly Washed Sheets


Isn’t climbing into a bed of freshly washed sheets awesome? Especially if you are a bit OCD like me. Still, it’s got to be on the list of simple pleasures for nearly everyone, I would think.


Unplugging


These days, I think one of the greatest simple pleasures is to get some frequent time without any tech or electronics. It’s hard to come by, but it’s oh so worth it because you’ll feel your soul getting revived.

A Day With Nothing To Do But Enjoy Those You Love


Sometimes there is so much to get done that we have to push ourselves to schedule a day when we don’t try to get anything done when our only goal is to spend time with those we love.


Always remember, life is not measured by the breaths we take but by the moment that takes our breath away. Memorable moments with loved ones is what makes that possible.


Being in Love


There is nothing like the feeling of being in love. If you’ve experienced it before, you know that it’s all consuming and it’s one of the most enjoyable feelings you can have.


While love can last, actually “being in love” is typically short-lived. One thing I’ve discovered, however, is that you can bring the feeling back. Like everything else, mindset has the most to do with being in love. When you can stop noticing the things you don’t like so much and focus on what you love about the person, that blissful “in-love” feeling comes back. Bring it back often and live it up!


An Incredible Kiss


A kiss that takes your breath away is certainly one of life’s best simple pleasures. Take your partner by surprise and slap an amazing kiss on him or her! It’s sure to add a spark to your relationship.


Watching the Rain


I love to sit on our back porch and watch the rain in the summer. There’s something about being outside during the rain but not getting wet that feels really good.


Lemonade on a Hot Summer Day


Lemonade and summer are kind of like peanut butter and jelly – they go together oh so well. A tall glass of ice cold lemonade is so refreshing and is certainly a simple pleasure to make sure you enjoy each summer.


Final Thoughts


What did I miss? Comment below with your favorite simple pleasures, and remember to engage in them as often as possible.

* The information provided here is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Please read my full disclaimer notice here. This content may contain affiliate links. Please read my full disclosure here.

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