Researchers polled 2,000 adults to determine all the little things that bring people joy. Sleeping in a big comfy bed, receiving a compliment from a stranger, and having a good hair day all show up on the list. Other favorites include a roaring fire, getting a cuddle from your children, cake and gossiping with friends. Going on a bike ride, meeting new people, and wearing a new pair of socks for the first time all appeared in the top 50. The satisfaction of a moment’s pleasure can last for up to 22 minutes on average. Half of those polled say they don’t get to enjoy life’s simplest pleasures often enough for their liking.
TOP 50 SIMPLE PLEASURES IN LIFE
1. Feeling of sun on your face
2. Sleeping in a freshly made bed
3. Stunning views
4. Waking up to sun
5. A nice dinner
6. Being out in the country
7. Seeing flowers and trees blossom
8. Listening to your favorite songs
9. Making someone smile or laugh
10. Long walks
11. Going to the beach
12. Dining out
13. Hearing nothing but birds tweeting
14. Cake
15. Sleeping in a big incredibly comfy bed
16. Finding money in a purse/wallet you had forgotten about
17. Sitting in an outdoor bar
18. Having dinner made for you
19. A roaring fire
20. Getting a delivery in the mail
21. Finishing a really good book
22. Watching your favorite movie
23. Discovering new places
24. Payday
25. Home cooking
26. Gossiping or catching up with friends
27. Seeing a butterfly
28. Laughing out loud at a film
29. Wearing an outfit that makes you feel good
30. Receiving a compliment from a stranger
31. Sound of rain on the window
32. Getting a cuddle from your children
33. Having a picnic
34. Sunbathing
35. Not having to set the alarm
36. People watching
37. Someone making you a cup of coffee or tea
38. Having a good hair day
39. Having a coffee or tea in bed
40. Staying in bed on a Sunday morning
41. Doing exercise
42. Discovering new food
43. Hearing the wind blow through the trees
44. Smell of toast in the morning
45. Seeing old people hold hands
46. Discovering new music
47. Buying fresh local food produce
48. Spotting a species of bird you’ve never seen before
49. Swimming outside
50. Donating to charity