In a recent episode of the Back to Better Book Club podcast, I had the pleasure of diving into the powerful themes of joy and happiness with my guest, Jade Delaney. Our conversation centered around Ingrid Fetell Lee's book, Joyful, which explores how simple adjustments to our surroundings can significantly boost our joy and, ultimately, our happiness.

As I’ve discovered, joy isn't just about fleeting moments or one-time experiences—it’s about being intentional with our environments and how we interact with the world. Jade and I shared our thoughts on how even the smallest changes can uplift us and lead to a more fulfilled life.

Joy vs. Happiness: What’s the Difference?

One of the most impactful takeaways from Joyful is that joy and happiness, while closely linked, are not the same. Happiness is an ongoing pursuit, a deeper sense of fulfillment and purpose that we build over time. Joy, however, can be experienced in an instant—a burst of positivity or contentment that brightens our day. Recognizing these nuances can help us embrace both joy and happiness as complementary forces in our lives.

The Power of Joyful Spaces

One concept Jade and I were particularly drawn to was the importance of creating joyful spaces. Imagine a room full of color, natural light, and elements from nature. These seemingly small details can have an enormous impact on our mood and energy. By intentionally designing spaces that bring us joy, we create daily opportunities for happiness that boost our mental health and well-being. Simple changes—like adding plants, introducing colors we love, or arranging items that spark fond memories—can foster a joyful environment right in our own homes.

Joy in Nature and Vibrant Colors

There’s no denying the power of nature in creating joy. Studies show that time spent outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase feelings of connectedness. In our conversation, Jade and I reflected on how even the act of bringing nature indoors—whether through fresh flowers, natural materials, or vibrant colors—can have a similar effect. Ingrid Fetell Lee emphasizes that bright colors and natural elements create a sense of vibrancy and aliveness in any space, bringing the outdoors in.

Celebrating Small Moments

Celebrations, big or small, play a unique role in fostering joy. In a fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook small wins or everyday milestones. Jade and I agreed that taking time to recognize these moments, whether through a small toast or a quick text to a friend, reinforces the joy in our lives. Celebrations allow us to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the positive things that we often take for granted.

Intentional Joy Amid Autopilot Living

Many of us go through our days on autopilot, missing opportunities to savor the little joys around us. A key takeaway from our discussion was the importance of being intentional in seeking joy. Instead of waiting for big events, we can make a habit of finding joy in small moments—be it a warm cup of coffee, a favorite song, or a heartfelt conversation.

Joy as a Coping Mechanism

For those of us navigating challenging times, joy can be a powerful coping mechanism. When we actively seek joyful moments, we’re better equipped to handle stress and anxiety. By prioritizing joy over societal expectations or pressures, we empower ourselves to be resilient in the face of hardship.

In our conversation, Jade and I were reminded that finding joy isn’t about avoiding life’s challenges; it’s about embracing the moments that lift us, even in difficult times. Joy, in its simplest forms, can truly be life-changing. If there’s one thing we can all take away, it’s this: Joy is within reach, as long as we take the time to look for it.