Tag: gratitude

The Joy Jar

What brings you joy? Do you find joy in the little every day things, or do you only find joy in big events? Maybe you experience joy in both! Perhaps, you are struggling to find your joy at all. No matter your current scenario, I have a little mental health exercise that might help you. I call it “The Joy Jar.”

First and foremost, let me provide this disclaimer. I am not a licensed therapist, psychologist, etc that has a background in mental health. My suggestions are not a replacement for their help. Also, this is not my original idea, but I think it is 100% worth sharing.

Now…

“The Joy Jar” is a simple concept. Throughout a given time frame, fill the jar with slips of paper describing something that happened which brought you joy. As the jar fills up, you will have a visual representation of all the things in life that bring you joy. Once the jar is full (or your time frame is up), empty the jar and review all of the things that brought you joy. Your heart will be warmed by the love and memories! For a long term joy reminder, tape the pieces of paper into a notebook that you can revisit.

The How To…

  1. Find a jar like object (mine is an old flower vase) and decorate it if desired.
  2. Find some paper (I use scraps of paper or those free pads of paper you get at vendor events), a writing utensil, and scissors that you can keep close to your “Joy Jar.”
  3. As things bring you joy, write them down on the paper, cut them out, and drop them in the jar.
  4. Fill the jar.
  5. Empty and repeat.

For me “The Joy Jar” is a simple tool, but the rewards of it are astronomical. When I reviewed my 2025 jar, it reiterated my “why” in life, reminded me of wonderful moments, and filled my heart with an abundance of love and happiness! Side note, do not wait until an hour before midnight on New Year’s Eve to start going through your jar. I 100% had to finish it on New Year’s Day!

If “The Joy Jar” can help one other person, then my mission of sharing this is accomplished. I hope you find your joy in 2026!

XOXO,

The Great Kaysby