75 Simple and Joyful Things to Do (That Cost Little or Nothing!)

BY REKHA RADHAKRISHNAN*

These days, expenses seem to be rising faster than ever, and many of us are living under the illusion that happiness must be bought—through expensive vacations, luxury experiences, or the latest gadgets. But is that really true?

I’ve come to realize that some of the most joyful moments in life cost little or nothing at all. In fact, the richness of life is often found in simplicity, connection, creativity, and presence—not in price tags.

A few days ago, I asked my friends to share three simple things they love doing—activities that bring them joy and happiness without costing much (or anything at all). The responses were heartwarming, creative, and deeply personal.

Here’s a compilation of 75 unique ways to enjoy life more fully, without spending much.

Now imagine: if we intentionally added just 3 to 5 of these into our daily lives, what an incredible shift we could experience in our mindset, energy, and mood.

Let this list be a gentle reminder that true happiness often hides in the smallest, most ordinary things.
Feel free to share this with someone who could use that reminder today.

Wishing you Happy, Joyful Living!

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1. Walk in nature
2. Talk to a friend
3. Draw cartoons
4. Paint
5. Watch a movie
6. Talk to your family
7. Borrow books from the library
8. Sing a song—just for fun or for loved ones
9. Play a sport like pickleball
10. Listen to podcasts or inspiring talks
11. Meditate
12. Try a new recipe
13. Create a vision board
14. Have a picnic in the park
15. Take a bike ride
16. Go on a scavenger hunt
17. Host a potluck dinner
18. Take a photography walk
19. Have a game night
20. Watch the sunrise or sunset on the beach
21. Journal your thoughts
22. Pray at a place of worship
23. Look through old photo albums
24. Read a book
25. Dance freely
26. Enjoy a TV show
27. Go for a run
28. Listen to bhajans
29. Watch cricket or football
30. Chat with staff, neighbors, or vendors
31. Try surfing
32. Clean your home (yes, it can feel good!)
33. Watch short videos or reels
34. Travel with family (even a day trip counts!)
35. Volunteer for a cause you care about
36. Chant in Sanskrit
37. Practice yoga or pranayama
38. Create art
39. Visit the gym
40. Take a nap or rest
41. People-watch in a public space
42. Browse airport lounges online or in person
43. Play with pets
44. Do absolutely nothing
45. Laze on the sofa while feeling the monsoon breeze
46. Take your dog for a walk
47. Listen to old English or Hindi songs
48. Go for a long drive
49. Work on a passion project
50. Exercise at home or outdoors
51. Learn something new online
52. Solve puzzles, crosswords, or sudoku
53. Teach something and prepare for it
54. Try DIY self-care routines
55. Mentor someone
56. Help seniors in your community
57. Show affection—kissing and beyond
58. Gaze at the sky, trees, or birds
59. Write poems, articles, or start a book
60. Create new family games
61. Make a scrapbook
62. Take free courses
63. Start a book club
64. Join a book club discussion
65. Organize and declutter your storage
66. Donate unused items
67. Attend free library events
68. Read to children at the library
69. Spend time on a farm
70. Collect and curate family recipes
71. Play chess, carrom, or board games
72. Go camping
73. Conduct research or curated studies
74. Style outfits for yourself or friends; give a mini makeover
75. Try your hand at gardening

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Rekha Radhakrishnan is a Certified Coach committed to helping individuals achieve their personal and professional success. With a passion for recognizing and elevating human potential, she is dedicated to making a meaningful and positive impact in the world.