In the comment section of a recent post, mbmom11 mentioned how much joy her $9 (purple, sparkly!) phone case brings her — and it got me thinking about the surprisingly big impact small aesthetic decisions seems to have in my own life.
While I generally lean toward a minimalist, neutral palette, I’m an absolute sucker for a bright punch of colour!
Take these jackets, for example — both thrifted. The blue-striped one was $42, the bright pink was $7 — but both have brought me so more joy than plain black ever could. (Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE black.)
It’s no wonder kid’s clothing is full of colour and bold patterns. Why not! (And yes, the frog coat had ears on the hood. Be still my heart.)
Years ago, I picked up two of these colourful bowls on the clearance rack at a home goods store. I still smile every time I use them. And when I add shredded carrot or tomato to a salad, it’s sometimes less about the nutrition and more about the burst of colour. (We eat with our eyes first, right?)
Let’s be honest — coffee absolutely tastes better out of a beloved mug. That’s just science. Okay, maybe not science, but you know what I mean!
Nail polish is fun and most of my go-to colours are under $5 a bottle!
When it comes to things like Bible covers or planner designs, I always choose what looks like the “happiest.” Why not pick the one with the colour or pattern I love most? It costs the same either way, but adds so much more joy.
One of our best garage sale finds has been this kaleidoscope lightbulb for $1. We put it in Belle’s closet years ago and it still brings her (and visiting friends) a lot of joy. It’s a lot more memorable than a regular bulb.
Even something as mundane as reusable grocery bags are more fun when they’re whimsical or bright. Practical and joyful? Yes, please.
Aesthetics matter, but it’s not just about how things look. Beauty can be about all the senses. When we were in Paris hunting for gifts to bring home, I spent at least 15 minutes sniffing locally made soaps until I found the “perfect” scent — lemon. It didn’t cost any extra, but it made me extra excited to give it.
My drawer organizers cost $5, but they bring me SO. MUCH. JOY.
Life is full of big decisions (*sigh* – I still haven’t found that adulting manual, Engie), but sometimes it’s the little choices that make the biggest difference in our daily experience.
Your turn:
- What’s one small item in your life that brings you unexpected joy?
- Do you have a favourite mug or piece of clothing that makes you happy every time you use or wear it?
- How do you bring colour, scent, or whimsy into your daily routines?
- What’s one tiny aesthetic upgrade you’ve made that had a surprisingly big impact?
Discover more from The Optimistic Musings of a Pessimist
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
