Did you know that you can change your life for the better today? It's not enough to just appreciate happiness, you also have to look forward to it.
What is Vorfreude?
Vorfreude is the pleasant anticipation of a future joy. We often feel this feeling when we plan a trip, think about a meeting or wait for a special meal. But Vorfreude can also be found in everyday events, not only in the "extraordinary" ones. Think about filling your calendar with little moments that make you happy.
Here are some ways:
1. Start small
Find a little thing every day that brings you joy. You can turn this into a photo challenge, capturing the most beautiful views or happy moments.
2. Think positively
Start your day with a positive affirmation. Put a message on your phone that motivates you.
3. Turn routine into rituals
For example: Focus on enjoying the first coffee of the day, thinking about the aroma, taste and sensation it gives you.
4. Find joy in the everyday
At the end of the day, think of three things you look forward to tomorrow, a walk in the park, a podcast on the way to work, or a relaxing cup of tea in the evening.
5. Avoid mind traps
Recognize your negative thoughts and change the way you see things. Instead of thinking "I'm only going for one night – it's not a holiday", think "what fun, a night out".
6. Enjoy the moment
There's a special moment before you enjoy a dessert, start a movie or get into a bubble bath. Remember how lucky you are and enjoy the wait.
7. Make your happiness a priority
Plan small activities that make you happy, like a short excursion or a walk alone. Give yourself permission to look forward to these pleasures.
8. Make plans in writing
Writing down your plans can make them more realistic and increase the joy of anticipation.
9. Keep a journal of your joys
Write down every day, week or month the things that made you happy. So you can plan more of them in the future.
10. Plan moves
Set aside time for activities you enjoy, such as yoga or meditation.
11. Plan meals
Create a meal plan for the week and look forward to what you are going to cook. A favorite dish can bring a lot of joy.
12. Arrange a meeting with friends
Plan a night out or a movie with a friend. Also, you can enjoy waiting for this time together.
13. Fantasize about vacations
Even if you can't go right away, think about a future trip and dream about it.
14. Enjoy nature
Enjoy the wonders of your garden or a walk in the park. These moments can bring you a lot of joy.
15. Take a relaxing walk where it's just you and your thoughts
When you are outside, notice the details of the nature around you and try to free yourself from worries.
16. Do something creative
Make time for activities that require creativity, such as creating collages, poems or watching YouTube videos.
17. Music
Dance or learn a new instrument. Music can bring you a lot of joy.
18. Try something new
Take a painting course. Develop talents you didn't know you had.
19. Visit the library
Set a reading challenge and enjoy browsing new books.
20. Read a poem every day
Get a collection of poems and read a new poem every day.
21. Throw a party
Plan a party with friends, even for a simple reason. Create reasons to celebrate.
22. Celebrate the seasons
Put the seasonal changes on your calendar as opportunities to celebrate and enjoy the changes in nature.
23. Do something for others
Plan a little surprise for someone you love. Feeling their joy can bring you great satisfaction.
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