Finding Joy in the Everyday: How to See Life Like an Artist

You know those days when everything feels like a boring routine, and life’s about as exciting as waiting for toast to pop up? We’ve all been there. But what if I told you that joy is just hanging out in the small moments, waiting for you to notice it? As an artist, I’ve learned that life is a masterpiece made up of tiny details—brushstrokes, if you will. And with a few tips, you can start seeing (and enjoying) these everyday moments like a masterpiece, too.

Step 1: Look at the Mundane Like It’s a Van Gogh Painting

Life’s everyday details—the morning light, the sound of coffee brewing, that squirrel doing acrobatics outside—these might seem small, but they’re pure gold if you know how to look at them. Artists call this “seeing beauty in the ordinary.” You don’t have to paint the sunset to appreciate it—sometimes it’s enough to just sit there and take it in.

So, next time you’re on autopilot, pause and take a look around. Pretend you’re in an art gallery (yes, even if you’re just staring at your kitchen counter) and really look at things. The colors, the textures, the little patterns in the most unexpected places. Suddenly, the world becomes a lot more interesting. And just like that, you’re finding joy in the everyday.

Step 2: Turn Routine Tasks into a ‘Creative Ritual’

Let’s face it: doing the dishes or folding laundry isn’t exactly thrilling. But what if you could turn these tasks into something special, like a “creative ritual?” Make it your moment—turn on some music, dance around, or imagine yourself in a slow-motion cleaning montage. You’re not just “doing chores”, you’re the star of your very own cinematic cleaning scene.

This little shift in mindset makes even the most basic tasks feel like part of a grand production. And before you know it, you’re smiling at your own ridiculousness. Who knew dishes could be a creative act? (Maybe don’t let your friends know you’re pretending to be in a music video—they might look at you funny. Or maybe do.)

Step 3: Add Some “Play” into Your Day

Artists know that creating isn’t just work; it’s play. They mess around with new techniques, experiment with crazy ideas, and sometimes make a total mess just for the heck of it. So, why not add a little playfulness to your day, even if you’re not holding a paintbrush?

Try something new and random, just for fun—learn a magic trick, make up a silly song, or doodle a stick figure on a sticky note. (Bonus points if your stick figure has a funny face.) Adding even a tiny bit of playfulness to your day can open up a world of joy. And hey, if it’s ridiculous, you’re doing it right!

Step 4: Appreciate Life’s Little “Happy Accidents”

Ever had a plan that went horribly wrong, but somehow ended up great anyway? In art, we call these “happy accidents.” Think of it as life throwing you an unexpected curveball that somehow turns into a win. Embrace these moments—they’re the universe’s way of keeping things interesting.

Spilled your coffee? Maybe it’s a sign you needed a break anyway. Forgot your umbrella and got caught in the rain? Hey, impromptu shower! Start seeing life’s little surprises as “happy accidents,” and they’ll go from annoyances to hilarious stories. You’ll realize the little detours can bring you the best memories.

Step 5: Find “Mini Masterpieces” in Each Day

Ever notice how artists are always stopping to admire something random? A cool shadow, the way leaves look in the sunlight, even a nicely arranged fruit bowl. They know that beauty isn’t just in big, dramatic moments—it’s in the small stuff, too. So go ahead, hunt for some “mini masterpieces” in your day.

Notice the bubbles in your coffee, the way the rain hits the window, or how the light looks just before sunset. These little details are like free art exhibits scattered throughout your day. When you start to see them, the world suddenly feels a whole lot richer—and that’s what we’re after, right?

Step 6: Celebrate Tiny Wins Like You’re at an Art Show

Every artist knows the feeling of finishing a tiny piece of art and thinking, “Yes! I did it!” You can do the same with your daily wins. Did you make it through a long workday? Applause! Finished a task that’s been on your list forever? Standing ovation! Your tiny achievements deserve to be celebrated, even if they’re as simple as getting out of bed on a rough morning.

In art, we’re constantly celebrating little milestones, and it adds a bit of magic to the process. Bring that mindset to your life, and soon you’ll find that even the smallest steps feel like a triumph. And hey, it gives you an excuse to treat yourself (not that you ever need one!).

Step 7: Make Life’s Canvas Yours (And Don’t Be Afraid to Go a Little Wild)

At the end of the day, remember that you’re the artist of your own life. So if you want to add a splash of color, a random adventure, or even a completely new “style,” go for it! Just like a painter gets to decide what goes on their canvas, you get to decide what goes into each day.

So if you’re itching to try something different—wear a bright color, take a new route home, try a wild flavor of ice cream—do it. It doesn’t matter if it “fits the plan.” Life is your blank canvas, and the joy comes from mixing things up and surprising yourself along the way. Who knows what you’ll discover about yourself?

Finding Joy, One Little Brushstroke at a Time

Life can be pretty amazing if you learn to see it like an artist—by appreciating the small details, adding a little playfulness, and celebrating every tiny win. The masterpiece of your life is made up of these little moments, and they’re waiting for you to notice them. So go on, grab your metaphorical paintbrush (or actual paintbrush if you’re feeling fancy) and start looking at life a little differently.

Everyday joy isn’t in the big stuff. it’s in the tiny brushstrokes of each day. The more you appreciate them, the brighter and more colorful your life becomes. So, go out there, embrace the everyday magic, and start creating a life full of little masterpieces!