Finding Joy in the Smallest Moments: A Gentle December Guide

The closer we get to Christmas, the more tempting it becomes to rush, stress, and get caught in the whirlwind of “everything that needs to get done.” But joy, especially in December, doesn’t usually arrive in the big things — it lives in the tiny, ordinary moments.

The small bursts of laughter.

The warm cup in your hands.

The quiet car ride listening to Christmas music.

The early morning stillness.

The handwritten note.

The moment of prayer.

These are the moments that soften your spirit, lighten your heart, and carry you into the new year with peace.

So today’s post is a gentle guide to finding joy in the small, often overlooked moments of December — moments that parents, teachers, students, book lovers, creatives, and Christians can all embrace.

Let’s slow down and breathe this in together.

🌟 Why Small Joy Matters More Than Big Joy

Small joy:

• is accessible every day

• is less stressful

• brings gratitude naturally

• helps regulate emotions

• reduces anxiety

• makes you more present

• strengthens your mental health

• deepens your relationships

• reveals God’s fingerprints in your life

When you learn to see small joy, your entire year changes — not just December.

🌟 STEP 1 — Start Your Day Noticing “One Good Thing”

Before checking your phone or jumping into tasks, pause and mentally note one good thing.

It could be:

• warmth under your blankets

• a loved one nearby

• peaceful silence

• sunlight peeking in

• breath in your lungs

• God’s goodness

• anticipation for the day

This simple moment sets your tone.

Students and teachers especially benefit from starting with this mental reset.

🌟 STEP 2 — Create a “Joy Corner” in Your Home or Classroom

Choose a tiny space where you keep:

✨ A candle

✨ A Bible or book

✨ A cozy mug

✨ A small plant

✨ A Scripture card

✨ A journaling card

✨ A soft blanket

✨ A photo

✨ A piece of decor you love

This becomes your mental “rest stop.”

Even 3 minutes here brings peace.

🌟 STEP 3 — Practice Slow Living Moments Throughout the Day

Try:

• Eating a meal without screens

• Sipping your drink instead of gulping

• Taking a short walk

• Standing outside for fresh air

• Sitting quietly for two minutes

• Stretching gently

• Reading a page of a book

• Turning off overhead lights

These micro-moments slow your heart rate and bring awareness.

🌟 STEP 4 — Notice “Tiny Miracles”

Challenge yourself to observe:

• the way light falls on your floor

• your child’s laughter

• morning sky patterns

• the warmth of your shower

• a peaceful commute

• a compliment from a student

• the smell of your home

• your favorite sweater

• the beauty of a book’s words

• the comfort of prayer

Small miracles are everywhere.

🌟 STEP 5 — Create a December Joy List

At the end of the day, write down:

• 3 things that made you smile

• 3 things you’re grateful for

• 1 moment God met you

This can be written on:

• a journaling card

• a sticky note

• a planner page

• a Highlights Journal page

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🌟 STEP 6 — Teach Kids or Students the Practice of Micro-Joy

For parents:

Ask your child, “What was a small moment that made you happy today?”

For teachers:

Use a “Joy Jar” or “Today I Smiled Because…” board.

For students:

Record one tiny joy in your planner or notebook.

This practice works wonders for emotional regulation.

🌟 STEP 7 — Bring Joy Into Your Creative Life

For crafters:

• start a tiny collage

• make a 5-minute journaling page

• decorate one journaling card

• print out one piece of ephemera

• do a simple Canva design

Creativity doesn’t have to be a “big project.”

Small creativity is healing.

🌟 STEP 8 — Notice the Joy in Scripture

Even one verse can shift your day.

Try reading:

• Luke 2 (especially this week!)

• Psalm 100

• Psalm 16:11

• Romans 15:13

• Philippians 4:4–7

• John 1:5

Write your verse on a card and place it somewhere you’ll see it.

🌟 STEP 9 — Add Small Joy to Your December Routine

Try:

• Wear cozy socks

• Leave early to avoid rushing

• Listen to soft music

• Light a seasonal candle

• Have a warm drink ritual

• Add a holiday bookmark to your book

• Take a slow shower

• Pray in the car

These tiny moments create big peace.

🌟 STEP 10 — Look for God in Ordinary Moments

Joy grows when you recognize that God is in:

• the quiet

• the chaos

• the routine

• the interruptions

• the small

• the simple

In December, His presence is especially close.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Small joy matters.

Small joy makes life softer.

Small joy reveals God’s presence.

Small joy prepares your heart for the year ahead.

You don’t have to chase big happiness.

Just pause long enough to notice the gentle moments already around you.

You’re doing beautifully.

You’re noticing what matters.

And your December is becoming brighter one small joy at a time.

Rea 🌻Creator of A Rea of Treasures

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