As we approach a new year, many of us are looking for ways to cultivate more happiness, positivity, and gratitude in our lives. One simple, yet impactful way to do this is by starting a “Joy Jar”—a fun and meaningful way to document your small wins and happy moments throughout the year. A joy jar is a place where you can collect and revisit all the beautiful, little things that bring you joy, making them easier to recognize and cherish as the months go by.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your own joy jar, designed to help you focus on the positive and celebrate the good in your life.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
The first step in creating your joy jar is to gather a few simple supplies. You don’t need anything fancy—just what resonates with you. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A Jar or Container: This can be any size you like, but a clear glass jar or container works best so you can see your collection grow over time. You can repurpose an old mason jar, a decorative vase, or even a fun, colorful box.
- Paper or Notes: You’ll need something to write your joyful moments on. Cut small pieces of paper (sticky notes work great, too) or get some colorful cards to make it even more fun.
- Pens or Markers: Choose your favorite pens or markers to write down your notes. You can even use different colors for a touch of creativity.
- Optional Decor: You can decorate your jar with ribbons, stickers, or paint to make it feel more personal. This will make it even more exciting to see each time you add a new moment of joy.
Step 2: Choose a Special Spot for Your Jar
Place your joy jar somewhere visible—on your desk, kitchen counter, or bedside table—so that it’s a constant reminder to focus on the good in your life. By having it in a prominent place, you’ll be more likely to add to it regularly. You can even make it a family tradition by placing it in a central spot where everyone can contribute.
Step 3: Set Your Intention for the Joy Jar
The next step is to set a clear intention for your joy jar. What do you want it to symbolize? Do you want to focus on small wins, happy moments, or positive thoughts throughout the year? You can start with an intention like:
- “This year, I will celebrate the small wins and moments of joy.”
- “I will remind myself of the good in my life, even during tough times.”
- “I will notice and appreciate the little things that bring me happiness.”
Setting an intention helps keep you motivated and grounded as you begin this journey.
Step 4: Start Adding to the Jar
The most important part of the joy jar is to start filling it! Each time something positive, joyful, or meaningful happens, take a moment to write it down on a small piece of paper. You can add things like:
- A personal achievement (even a small one, like completing a project or tackling a difficult task)
- A fun outing (a family trip, a date night, or a relaxing afternoon in nature)
- An uplifting conversation (a meaningful chat with a friend or loved one)
- A moment of gratitude (finding peace in a difficult day or appreciating something simple, like your morning coffee)
- A new experience (trying a new hobby, visiting a new place, or learning something new)
The key is to keep it small and simple. These moments don’t have to be grand or extraordinary—just anything that made you smile or feel good during your day. As the year goes on, the jar will slowly fill up with these happy moments.
Step 5: Make It a Routine
The joy jar works best when you make it a routine. Set aside a few minutes each day or week to reflect on your day and add to the jar. Some people like to do it at the end of the day as a way to unwind and reflect on the positives. Others may prefer to do it at the start of the day to focus on what they’re grateful for before diving into their tasks.
Even if it’s just a quick note or a few words, the act of intentionally reflecting on your day can shift your mindset towards gratitude and joy.
Step 6: Revisit Your Joy Jar Throughout the Year
One of the most powerful aspects of a joy jar is revisiting it. As the months go by and you continue to add to your jar, take time to go through the notes and reminisce about all the wonderful moments you’ve experienced. You can do this:
- Monthly: At the end of each month, take a moment to reflect on the little things you’ve added to your jar. This helps you appreciate the cumulative joy in your life.
- Quarterly: Every few months, empty the jar and read through the notes to remind yourself of the happy moments you’ve collected.
- At Year’s End: On New Year’s Eve or the first day of the new year, take some time to read all your notes from the year. You’ll be amazed at how many joyful moments you’ve experienced, even when life felt overwhelming. This reflection can fill you with gratitude and inspire you to keep going into the next year with positivity and hope.
Step 7: Share the Joy with Others
If you’d like, you can share your joy jar moments with others. At the end of the year, consider reading some of the notes aloud with family or friends, especially if you’ve been adding to it together. It’s a fun way to celebrate the good things you’ve experienced as a group.
Alternatively, if you feel inspired, you can share a few moments on social media or in a blog post to spread positivity and remind others to celebrate their small wins.
A joy jar is a simple yet powerful tool for documenting and celebrating the moments that bring you happiness. In 2025, why not start this small, intentional practice to keep track of all the little victories, beautiful moments, and blessings throughout the year? It’s a wonderful way to shift your focus toward gratitude and positivity, making sure that even the smallest of joys don’t go unnoticed.
This year, take the time to reflect on what brings you happiness—no matter how small—and watch your joy jar fill up with the beautiful moments that make life so special.
