According to research, experiencing micro-joys, or brief moments of joy, can have numerous short-term and long-term benefits for mental health. These small moments of pleasure can range from enjoying a cup of coffee to performing an act of kindness or laughing at a funny video.
According to Jolanta Burke, a senior lecturer at the Centre for Positive Health Sciences at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, finding joy in the little things can boost momentary happiness and help develop qualities such as optimism and resilience. These qualities can help protect against distress and poor mental health in the future.
While the exact number of micro-joys needed to experience these benefits is not yet clear, research suggests that even a small increase in positive emotions can have a significant impact on wellbeing. Burke notes that experiencing one or two micro-joys per day can be a good starting point, but the key is to find activities that bring joy and make them a regular part of one’s routine.
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Senior Lecturer, Centre for Positive Health Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences
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It’s no secret that mental and emotional health plays a huge part in our overall wellbeing, but maintaining a positive outlook isn’t just about feeling happy all the time.
Of course, it’s simply not human to feel cheerful all the time, and it’s perfectly normal to have a bad day. That said, happiness can help us through the tough times as well as the good, and making space for the things that spark joy can do the world of good for mood and self-esteem.
