Rediscover Joy in Everyday Life
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget the simple magic of being alive. This is especially true here in Kenya where hustle culture thrives. But joy doesn’t have to be a far-off dream. What if it’s right here—in the way we live, love, and laugh every single day?
“Live, Love, Laugh” isn’t just a motivational phrase. It’s a powerful lifestyle framework. It invites us to slow down and savor the moment. It encourages building a life rooted in purpose, connection, and fun.
This guide will help you add meaning to your daily routine. It will help deepen relationships. Alternatively, it will help you find more reasons to smile. It will walk you through practical, joy-boosting habits. All of this is grounded in a uniquely Kenyan context. Let’s dive into your personal joy revolution.
🌱 Live Fully: Embrace Purpose & Presence
1. Start Your Day With Presence
In Nairobi, it’s not uncommon to wake up to the sound of matatus honking and WhatsApp messages already pouring in. But instead of rushing into the chaos:
Try this: Before anything else, take three deep breaths. Step outside, if possible. Feel the breeze, listen to birdsong, and say “Asante” for another day. These few moments of mindfulness can transform your energy.
Joy habit: Start a “5-minute morning journal” – jot down one intention, one thing you’re grateful for, and one thing you’re excited about.
2. Create Meaning From the Mundane
Joy thrives when we treat the everyday with reverence. Whether you’re cooking sukuma wiki or sweeping your compound, these moments can be meditative.
Ask yourself:
- What task today deserves my full attention?
- How can I make it more joyful? (Music, silence, or even inviting someone to join in?)
Real-life story: Wanjiku, a teacher from Nakuru, transformed her dishwashing routine into a moment of prayer and reflection. “Now I actually look forward to it.”
3. Energize Your Routine With Intentional Choices
Swap out autopilot habits for nourishing rituals:
- Replace doomscrolling at night with 10 minutes of journaling or reading a local novel
- Turn lunchtime into a moment of mindfulness—notice textures, flavors, and memories tied to your food
- Incorporate nature into your week—walks in Karura Forest or a quiet corner of Uhuru Park
4. Connect With Nature, Even in the City
Studies show time in nature boosts mental health. In Kenya, we’re blessed with incredible landscapes. You can hike Ngong Hills. You sit by Lake Naivasha. You can also garden in your backyard. Create space to be with the earth.
Joy tip: No time for an excursion? Place a small plant by your desk. Name it. Talk to it. Watch how that simple act brings grounding.
❤️ Love Deeply: Build Meaningful Connections
1. Embrace Ubuntu: You Are Because We Are
Kenyan culture thrives on community. But digital life can leave us isolated. Reclaim your roots by:
- Hosting simple home gatherings (nyama choma, anyone?)
- Visiting mamas in your neighborhood to share stories and tea
- Checking in on elders regularly, even if just by phone
Stat: People with strong social bonds are not only happier but live longer. The University of Nairobi found such individuals report 40% higher life satisfaction.
2. Deepen Existing Bonds
Love isn’t just romantic. It lives in friendships, family, colleagues, and even strangers.
Ideas to nurture love:
- Write handwritten letters to your parents or best friend
- Surprise someone with their favorite snack
- Offer genuine compliments—especially to people often overlooked, like your boda guy or the mama mboga
3. Love Yourself Like You Matter (Because You Do)
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritize self-love through:
- Mirror work: Look yourself in the eye and say “Nakupenda.”
- Solo dates: Go to the cinema, try a new restaurant, or take yourself on a picnic in Arboretum
- Affirmations: Create a list like “I am enough. I bring light. My joy matters.”
4. Set Loving Boundaries
True love respects energy. Learn to:
- Say “no” without overexplaining
- Take breaks from draining relationships or groups
- Ask for support when overwhelmed
Kenyan Wisdom: “Kupendana si kufilisana.” (Loving each other shouldn’t mean draining each other.)
🤣 Laugh Often: Kenya’s Best Medicine
1. Make Time for Laughter, Daily
Laughter isn’t just a mood boost. It’s medicine.
- Boosts immunity
- Relieves stress
- Connects us to others
Find your funny:
- Watch Churchill Show clips
- Swap stories with your shosh
- Follow local comedians like Crazy Kennar or Cartoon Comedian
2. Rediscover the Joy of Play
Play is not just for kids. It’s vital for adults too.
- Dance to Sauti Sol while doing chores
- Join a local football game (even if you’re just cheering!)
- Try out silly TikTok challenges with your kids or cousins
Scene: At Pirates Beach in Mombasa, you’ll see grownups laughing in the waves like watoto. Be that adult!
3. Laugh at Life’s Imperfections
When your matatu breaks down. When your ugali burns. When a chicken chases you. Choose laughter over frustration.
Perspective shift: Life in Kenya is vibrant, messy, and beautiful. Let the chaos amuse you. It’s all part of the story.
Overcoming Joy Thieves
1. Cut Down on Digital Clutter
Kenyans now spend an average of 4.5 hours daily on screens. Combat digital overload with:
- Screen-Free Sundays
- Unfollowing accounts that trigger comparison
- Using apps like Forest to focus without distractions
2. Beat Comparison Culture
Social media is full of curated perfection. But life is messy, and that’s okay.
- Celebrate your unique journey—even if it doesn’t involve safari getaways or new cars
- Remember: The loudest lives online aren’t always the happiest offline
Real talk: That influencer flaunting brunches in Karen is lonelier than you think. Focus on your authentic joy.
3. Address Mental Health Openly
It’s okay to not be okay. Talk to someone. Kenya now has more accessible mental health services, and organizations like Befrienders Kenya offer free helplines.
Joy courage: Seek help when needed. Vulnerability is strength.
Make Joy Stick: Habits That Last
1. Practice Daily Gratitude
Gratitude changes everything. Keep a notebook by your bed.
Each night, write:
- 3 things you’re thankful for (clean water, a friend’s call, a gorgeous sunset)
- 1 small joy you want to repeat tomorrow
2. Create a Monthly Joy Ritual
At the end of each month, ask:
- What made me feel most alive?
- What drained my energy?
- What do I want to do more or less of next month?
Example: Leah, a university student in Eldoret, uses the new moon to set “joy goals”—like dancing weekly or reconnecting with a cousin.
3. Celebrate Small Wins
You woke up early? Celebrate.
You cooked instead of ordering out? Celebrate.
You said no to something that didn’t serve you? Celebrate!
Joy grows when we acknowledge our growth.
4. Surround Yourself With Joyful Reminders
Create a “joy corner” in your home:
- Photos of loved ones
- Quotes that uplift
- A candle or plant
Curate your digital space too—follow people who inspire and uplift.
Start Your Joy Journey Today
Joy doesn’t wait for perfect circumstances. It’s the daily choice to:
- Live intentionally
- Love generously
- Laugh unapologetically
Your challenge today:
- Think of one thing that brings you joy (like that singing boda rider)
- Do it, share it, and repeat it often
Over to you: What’s your favorite Kenyan joy ritual? Drop it in the comments and let’s inspire each other to live, love, and laugh—Kenyan style. 💛
