She Gave It a Go

5 Creative Ways to Find Pleasure in Your Daily Life

Decor | April 26, 2022

The daily rhythms of life can sometimes lose their wonder if we are not intentional about seeking ways to find joy in these otherwise mundane moments. I am excited to share five creative ways to find pleasure in your daily life and a book recommendation that helped me jumpstart my rut once again!

 

Photo Credit: Eleanor Stenner via Well-Watered Women Photoshoot at our home.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains other affiliate links too. If you click on these links and buy something, I make a commission at no cost to you.

 

Photo Credit: Eleanor Stenner via Well-Watered Women Photoshoot at our home.

 

I’ve heard many people say they feel like they are on the treadmill of life.  That every day begins to feel the same over time, and there is a lack of joy for them. I have to admit, I can get into a rut where I can relate to this feeling too.

 

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But as a former Marriage and Family Therapist and a Christ-follower, I know when I am sinking into these holes and have learned that it is not beneficial or healthy to see our moments and days as something that is just blah. I’ve learned some creative ways to get out of them too. 

 

Photo Credit: Eleanor Stenner via Well-Watered Women Photoshoot at our home.

 

You see, each day is a gift!  “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!” Do you agree with this mindset?

 

Photo Credit: Eleanor Stenner via Well-Watered Women Photoshoot at our home.

 

Once you do agree, these 5 creative ways to find pleasure in your daily life will just make sense. Before I share these 5 ways with you, don’t miss the book recommendation that I am sharing too.

 

Photo credit: Melissa Michaels

 

My friend, Melissa Michaels, wrote a book titled “A Lovely Life” that was a recent inspiration to me.  It’s a must-read and sits on my desk now…more to come below. Don’t miss the chance to enter a giveaway too!

 

Photo Credit: Eleanor Stenner via Well-Watered Women Photoshoot at our home.

I wanted to make it easy for you to remember these 5 creative ways to find pleasure in your daily life so they are simply based on our five senses: smell, touch, taste, sound, and sight.

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These ideas are best applied when you understand that your thoughts impact your behaviors which impact how you feel. It’s a cyclical formula.  Carry this with you as you read these ways below and begin applying it to your day-to-day routines and how this would work for you.

 

5 Creative Ways to Find Pleasure in Your Daily Life

Smell

Smells can be nostalgic, and remind of you the people and places you love.  Isn’t this a wonderful way, then, to add happiness to your daily life?

I currently am sitting at my desk, writing this post with one of my favorite candles burning.  Writing is more enjoyable with the smell of something that reminds me of my family.

I’ve also found that folding laundry feels happier with smells that are amazing. When I am standing at my bed sorting through the laundry, just smelling this lovely scent brings joy to this chore.

 

Photo Credit: Eleanor Stenner via Well-Watered Women Photoshoot at our home.

 

Sight

I’ve learned that finding pleasure in what we see day to day also has as much to do with, what we choose not to see.

Pleasurable sights around the home are fresh/faux bouquets of flowers, pretty books, scripture on wood wall signs, and family gathered around the table.  On the other hand, seeing sinks full of dirty dishes, clothes on the floor, and cluttered surfaces will drain us.

As much as I love decorating our home, it’s important to note that sometimes less is more. Surround yourself with pretty little things to look at in your everyday moments. Place a mason jar of flowers by your sink when you are getting ready in the morning or a lovely, new hand towel in your kitchen when washing dishes.

Hang a wood sign (use code: SHEGAVEITAGO for a discount) in your entryway that greets you at the door with a message to reframe your thoughts after a long day. You can also place interactive prayer and scripture cards around your home (like these!) to remind you of God’s truths and love for you!

 

Photo Credit: Eleanor Stenner via Well-Watered Women Photoshoot at our home.

Taste

Warm beverages such as coffee can be delightful plain or add in your own barista touches.  I recently discovered sugar-free syrups on Amazon and they’ve made my morning coffee even better!

Daily water consumption can be a struggle for me specifically, so I recently got a fun water bottle that has a straw. My daily water goal is easier with a functional container and it’s cute too.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner prep and cooking…I am finding joy again with these by following along with some of my favorite social media accounts/bloggers to change it up! I think variety is key to finding pleasure in what can feel like a mundane task with cooking.

I also recently bought this cookbook that I can’t recommend enough!

Photo Credit: Eleanor Stenner via Well-Watered Women Photoshoot at our home.

Touch

This may be one of my favorites!

Add seasonal blankets and pillows to several areas of your home.  When I am working, I often have a nice pillow behind my back or a blanket too. Comfortable items when working, paying bills at home, and doing homework, can make a difference and relax your mindset.

In the mornings, give your family members a hug to jumpstart their morning routine and bring happiness to making lunches or eating breakfast.

 

Photo Credit: Eleanor Stenner via Well-Watered Women Photoshoot at our home.

Sound

I have been leaving my doors open in Spring! The sound of birds chirping makes folding laundry much happier.

You can also place portable speakers around your home to play worship or upbeat music when cleaning, organizing, cooking, or working.  What we pour into our minds affects our overall feelings!

Looking for hope-filled music? Check out my FREE, downloadable playlists in this post!

So fill it with sounds that bring joy to these daily tasks and offer encouragement.

Photo Credit: Eleanor Stenner via Well-Watered Women Photoshoot at our home.

 

I mentioned above how I can get caught up in forgetting these things, and it takes something to jumpstart a healthy mindset again.

A Lovely Life Book Recommendation

Enter my friend Melissa Michael’s new book, A Lovely Life. I read it cover to cover in one sitting, it’s that good!

 

Image credit: Melissa Michaels

A Lovely Life is filled with inspiration and practical ideas to savor the simple joys around you and in your home. It offers gentle encouragement throughout to focus on being intentional with your days, ideas, tasks, and mindsets as you seek, create and savor the beauty found in every season.

 

Photo Credit: Melissa Michaels

 

A Lovely Life will show you ways you can:

  • Practice simple homemaking and soul tending rhythms and rituals
  • Cultivate more peace, contentment, and joy in your surroundings throughout the year
  • Embrace simplicity in your life and home in every season
  • Nurture your well-being through the beauty you create or discover around you
  • Seek renewal in spring, refreshment in summer, reconnection in autumn, and rest in winter

Freebie? Yes, please!

Pre-Order Freebie!

Want a free downloadable seasonal planner and a botanical print. The link to the pre-order gifts is here. It goes along perfectly with the book.

 

Image Credit: Melissa Michaels

Don’t miss my blogger friends’ posts that share on this topic too:

Tuesday, April 26th

The Inspired Room
She Gave it a Go
Shiplap and Shells
Robyn’s French Nest

Thursday, April 28th

The Inspired Room
Grace in My Space
Rooms for Rent
Southern Hospitality

 

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Stay in touch by joining The She Gave It A Go Mailing List! Get weekly tips, encouragement, special deals, and more on all things faith, family, and farmhouse decor.

Looking for more ways to create joyful moments with your children in your day-to-day living? Check out my friend Heather from My Life Well Loved post on Easy Ways To Give Back As A Family and learn about some amazing organizations to join alongside. Giving back prompts joy!

If you enjoyed this post, I recommend checking out this one too:

Joy As A Spiritual Discipline

  1. Such a beautiful post Brendt! I love these practical and easy to remember tips!

  2. […] Inspired RoomShe Gave it a Go (Lovely Book Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Lovely Garden Bundle Giveaway!)Robyn’s […]

  3. What a lovely post Brendt. I agree, every day is a gift. I love lighting a candle or using essential oils to bring in those beautiful fragrances. I’m loving Melissa’s book as much as you are. Such a treat.

    • Pam Morgan says:

      Thank you for this reminder! Simple things that make such a difference in bringing us comfort & joy. I’m looking forward to Melissa’s book! I’m thankful for all you ladies that inspire, create and influence in so many positive ways.

  4. Deanna Rabe says:

    Melissa and I have been blog friends from the early years! I think she has a lot of practical wisdom to share!

  5. Laura K says:

    Thank you for sharing. Such great and practical ideas… that cookbook looks amazing!

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Thank you, Laura, for stopping by! I am so glad the ideas were helpful.
      And, yes, the cookbook is definitely amazing!
      Warmest,
      Brendt

  6. Melissa says:

    What a lovely post, Brendt! You shared so many wonderful and helpful insights! I’m grateful for you and all you do to inspire and encourage us every day. Thank you for sharing about A Lovely Life book, I’m so grateful!! xoxo

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Thank you, that is so very kind, Melissa! This experience has been so wonderful, and a true honor to share about your new book.
      I’m obsessed with it if you can’t tell!!

      Blessings upon blessings!
      xoxo,
      Brendt

  7. Pat says:

    I enjoyed reading your post. This is the first time I have been to your blog, but it won’t be the last.

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Awww, thank you, Pat! That makes me smile.
      I am so glad you stopped by, and can’t wait for you to come back again.
      Warmest blessings,
      Brendt

  8. Jo Reynolds says:

    We only have one life to live so why not make each day as lovely as possible? I love your simple tips on inviting joy into our everyday life

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Amen…That is exactly right, we never need to waste our precious days!
      I am so glad you stopped by, friend.
      Blessings,
      Brendt

  9. Kathy Brooks says:

    You are so inspiring. Beautiful pleasures in life.

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Hi Kathy,
      Thank you so very much, friend! I am so glad you stopped by.
      Blessings upon blessings to you,
      Brendt

  10. Letta says:

    Excited to have found you through this book tour! I love the ideas you shared here.

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Hi Letta,
      Oh, that makes me smile! Thank you so much, and I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed reading these ideas.
      I hope you come back to visit soon.
      Blessings my friend,
      Brendt

  11. Patricia says:

    My rose colored glasses moment; arranging some free flowers my sister gave me.

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Oh, I love this Patricia!
      What a perfect moment to enjoy.

      Thank you so much for stopping by!
      Warmest,
      Brendt

  12. Christina says:

    I can definitely relate to this topic. It’s so easy to feel like you’ve lost yourself in the everyday (though necessary) things of life.

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Christina,
      Yes, I feel like we can easily get caught in that trap, and it’s about intentionally trying to be aware of it daily.
      I am so thrilled you stopped by, friend.
      Blessings,
      Brendt

  13. Amrita says:

    I love the idea of music with laundry.I listen to podcasts during housekeeping work.

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Oh yes, Amrita! I enjoy listening to podcasts too… a great idea!
      What are some of your favorites?

      Have a wonderful day,
      Brendt

  14. Deb says:

    Thank you for your lovely thoughts

  15. Buffie says:

    I love the idea that less is more. This was a lovely post!

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Isn’t that a wonderful thought?! Takes pressure off of the thought that we have to accumulate so much stuff to be happy.

      Thank you for stopping by, friend!
      Warmest,
      Brendt

  16. Janita says:

    Thanks for sharing your ideas. I love the days when I take the time to light a candle but often don’t take the time to do it.

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Janita,
      Thank you so much for stopping by, friend!
      Yes, lighting a candle can lift my mood and so glad when I do have one burning.

      Have a wonderful day.
      Warmest,
      Brendt

  17. […] up on the tour, visit She Gave it a Go! Click HERE and be sure to enter the giveaways at each of the tours this […]

  18. Jody says:

    First time on your blog! Love it. I’m subscribing. 🥰

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Oh yay, Jody, welcome friend!
      So happy you stopped by and so glad you’ll be staying connected.

      Warmest,
      Brendt

  19. Roxanne Gujda says:

    What we pour into our minds affects our overall feelings! That is soooo true. Lovely post…I just started following you today through Melissa @theinspiriedroom.

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Oh, yay, hi friend! So thrilled you stopped by, and isn’t Melissa lovely?!
      Yes, behaviors/thoughts/feelings…all so connected! Here’s to joyful thoughts and feelings.
      I hope you’ll come back again!

      Warmest,
      Brendt

  20. […] Inspired RoomShe Gave it a Go (Lovely Book Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Lovely Garden Bundle)Robyn’s French Nest (Lovely […]

  21. […] Inspired RoomShe Gave it a Go (Lovely Book Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Lovely Garden Bundle)Robyn’s French Nest (Lovely […]

  22. […] Inspired RoomShe Gave it a Go (Lovely Book Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Lovely Garden Bundle)Robyn’s French […]

  23. […] Impressed RoomShe Gave it a Go (Pretty E-book Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Pretty Backyard Bundle)Robyn’s French […]

  24. […] Inspired RoomShe Gave it a Go (Lovely Book Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Lovely Garden Bundle)Robyn’s French Nest (Lovely […]

  25. Dorene. B. says:

    Such a wonderful post with simple yet effective ideas. Thank you so much for sharing these inspiring ways to find the beauty ins simple things and everyday tasks.

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Thank you, Dorene, this means so much to me. I am so happy that this post was helpful to you!
      Warmest blessings,
      Brendt

  26. […] Inspired RoomShe Gave it a Go (Pretty E-book Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Pretty Backyard Bundle)Robyn’s French […]

  27. […] (Lovely Morning Routine Bundle Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Lovely Gardening Bundle Giveaway!) She Gave it a Go (Lovely Book Bundle […]

  28. […] (Lovely Morning Routine Bundle Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Lovely Gardening Bundle Giveaway!) She Gave it a Go (Lovely Book Bundle […]

  29. […] (Lovely Morning Routine Bundle Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Lovely Gardening Bundle Giveaway!) She Gave it a Go (Lovely Book Bundle […]

  30. Kim Waldorf says:

    What beautiful reminders! I am so looking forward to getting my book! So glad you are “back-up” and running, Brendt! Here’s to bright days ahead!

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Awww, thank you so much, sweet Kim! I am thrilled you stopped by, and you are going to LOVE this book!
      Have a wonderful day,
      Brendt

  31. Lisa Thoreson says:

    Thank you – for the inspiration and opportunity.

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Hi Lisa,

      Thank you so much for stopping by, I am so glad this article was helpful.
      Best of luck on the giveaway!

      Warmest blessings friend,
      Brendt

  32. Susan says:

    Such a gracious home!

  33. Rebecca says:

    It’s always so beautiful to invest in home…this book looks so life-giving!! Thanks so much for the giveaway!!

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Hi Rebecca,
      Thank you so much for stopping by! And, yes, this book is incredible!!
      Best of luck on the giveaway.
      Warmest blessings,
      Brendt

  34. Susan says:

    Spring is the perfect time to have this lovely outlook! Lots of good ideas to make each day a little lovelier!

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Hi Susan,
      Yes, it sure is my friend! I am thrilled to hear you are finding these ideas inspirational.
      Thank you for stopping by!
      Warmest,
      Brendt

  35. Maureen says:

    With all that has been going on in the world and then with what occurs in everyday life a book to reflect and doing what soothes you is so what is needed.

  36. […] (Lovely Morning Routine Bundle Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Lovely Gardening Bundle Giveaway!) She Gave it a Go (Lovely Book Bundle […]

  37. […] Early morning Regime Bundle Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Lovely Gardening Bundle Giveaway!) She Gave it a Go (Lovely Reserve Bundle […]

  38. bn100 says:

    looks nice

  39. […] up on the tour, visit She Gave it a Go! Click HERE and be sure to enter the giveaways at each of the tours this […]

  40. […] (Pretty Morning Routine Bundle Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Pretty Gardening Bundle Giveaway!) She Gave it a Go (Pretty E-book Bundle […]

  41. manda says:

    I love the ideas. Thanks!

  42. […] (Lovely Morning Routine Bundle Giveaway!)Shiplap and Shells (Lovely Gardening Bundle Giveaway!) She Gave it a Go (Lovely Book Bundle […]

  43. […] She gave It A Go/ 5 Creative Ways To Find Pleasure In Your Daily Life […]

  44. I always love your encouraging words, Brendt. What a great way to find your way back by grounding ourselves to the gift of senses the Lord gave us.

    Thank you for always being such a beautiful light in the world!

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Jen,
      Thank you so very much, friend. Yes, our senses are all ways to think on/dwell on the Lord’s goodness!
      Grateful for you, xoxo,
      Brendt

  45. All great ideas Brendt. Most days I wake thinking it’s a gift from the Lord but some I just rush out of bed and get busy. I need to slow down and see the blessings. I am typically a person that doesn’t complain and grateful for my people and their laundry. 😉 Thanks for the book recommendation too. The cover is beautiful! And thanks for letting me join WHS!

    • Brendt Blanks says:

      Thank you, Cindy, this is such a wonderful message to read. I too can get caught up in the busyness of the day, so slowing down is something I have to be mindful of as well. The Lord gives us a new day with renewed mercies, indeed!
      So happy you could join us for this week’s WHS, we loved having you!
      Blessings,
      Brendt

  46. Brendt,
    These are such wonderful ways to find pleasure in your life. I love that you used the 5 senses as a guide. Perfect. So happy to share this article in our round up today.

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