Creating Joy in Ordinary Moments

Have you ever noticed how life in Nigeria can feel like a whirlwind? From the early morning hustle in Lagos traffic to the vibrant chaos of a local market in Abuja, our days are packed with routines that sometimes blur into one endless stream. Yet, amidst all this, there's a quiet magic in the ordinary moments—if we choose to see it. Creating joy in these everyday slices isn't about grand gestures or vacations; it's about tuning into the small, often overlooked experiences that make life feel alive. As a Nigerian navigating the same bustling streets and family gatherings, I've learned that joy isn't something we chase; it's something we cultivate right where we are.

Let's start with the mornings. In many Nigerian homes, the day begins with the aroma of akara frying in the kitchen or the sound of a neighbor's radio blaring highlife music. These aren't just routines; they're opportunities to infuse a bit of delight. Think about your commute—whether it's dodging potholes on the way to work or waiting for a danfo that never seems to arrive on time. Instead of letting frustration take over, what if you turned it into a moment of connection? Last week, I was stuck in traffic on the Third Mainland Bridge, the kind where engines hum and horns blare like a symphony of impatience. But then I struck up a conversation with the woman next to me. She was heading to Balogun Market to sell fabrics, and we ended up sharing stories about our favorite tailors in Yaba. By the time we parted ways, that ordinary ride felt lighter, almost joyful.

Embracing the Rhythm of Daily Chores

Household chores might seem mundane, but they're fertile ground for sparking joy, especially in our culture where family and community play such central roles. Take cooking, for instance. In Nigeria, preparing jollof rice or pounding yam isn't just a task; it's a ritual passed down through generations. I remember watching my mum in our Enugu home, her hands deftly stirring egusi soup while humming old Igbo tunes. She always said the secret to good food was a happy heart. To create joy here, try involving others—turn it into a family affair. Invite your kids or siblings to chop vegetables or stir the pot, sharing laughs over who's the slowest peeler. It's these shared moments that build warmth, making the chore feel like a celebration.

Or consider laundry day, which in our humid climate can feel endless. Rather than rushing through it, use the time to listen to a podcast about Nigerian history or upbeat afrobeats that get your feet moving. I once set up a small stool in the backyard, folding clothes while chatting with my auntie over the fence. We reminisced about childhood festivals in the village, and suddenly, the pile of linens didn't seem so daunting. The key is mindfulness: pay attention to the sensations—the warmth of the sun on your skin, the rhythm of folding. These simple shifts transform drudgery into something almost meditative.

In the Heart of Community Interactions

Our Nigerian spirit thrives on community, so why not weave joy into those everyday encounters? A trip to the market is a prime example. The stalls overflowing with fresh plantains, spices, and fabrics in places like Ariaria Market in Aba can be overwhelming, but it's also brimming with potential for delight. Next time you're bargaining for tomatoes, smile and ask the seller about their day. You might learn about their harvest troubles or hear a joke that brightens your mood. I once haggled over a bunch of ugu leaves and ended up with not just greens, but a new friend who shared tips on growing my own backyard garden. These interactions remind us that joy often hides in the give-and-take of daily life.

Even in professional settings, ordinary moments can spark happiness. If you're in an office in Ikeja or running a small business in Kano, the coffee break or quick team huddle is a chance to connect. Share a story from your weekend—maybe about attending a church service or watching a Super Eagles match with friends. These snippets humanize the workday, turning colleagues into confidants. Actionable tip: Start a 'gratitude round' during lunch, where everyone shares one small win from the morning. It takes mere minutes but can shift the entire vibe of your space.

Rediscovering Play in Routine Leisure

Leisure time in Nigeria often means gathering with loved ones, but even solo moments can be joyful if approached right. Picture an evening stroll around your neighborhood after a long day. In cities like Port Harcourt, where the air carries hints of river breeze, walking can clear the mind. Instead of scrolling endlessly on your phone, notice the kids playing football in the street or the laughter from a nearby buka. I make it a point to join in sometimes—kicking a ball with the neighborhood boys or stopping for some suya from the vendor who's become like family. It's these unscripted plays that recharge us.

For those quiet evenings at home, reading or journaling can elevate the ordinary. Pick up a book by a Nigerian author like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, letting her words transport you while sipping zobo from a local vendor. Or jot down three things you're grateful for from the day—the call from your cousin in the village, the unexpected rain that cooled the heat, or the perfect puff-puff from your favorite spot. These practices ground us, turning passive time into active joy-building.

Navigating Challenges with a Joyful Lens

Of course, not every moment is easy. Power outages—those infamous NEPA surprises—can test our patience, especially during a heatwave. But even here, creativity blooms. In my Lagos flat, when the lights go out, we light candles and play card games by their flicker, telling stories that stretch late into the night. It's become our 'blackout tradition,' turning a nuisance into a bonding ritual. Similarly, in rural areas like my hometown in Owerri, fetching water from the stream might be routine, but chatting with fellow villagers along the way adds layers of connection and amusement.

The insight here is resilience through reframing. When faced with delays or shortages—common in our daily Nigerian grind—ask yourself: What small pleasure can I find right now? It could be the relief of shade under a mango tree or the solidarity of shared complaints that lead to laughter. This mindset doesn't ignore hardships; it layers joy atop them, making us stronger.

Cultivating Lasting Habits for Everyday Joy

To make this a habit, start small. Set an intention each morning: 'Today, I'll find joy in one ordinary moment.' Track it in a notebook—did the banter with your okada rider make you smile? Did the scent of rain on red earth lift your spirits? Over time, these build a reservoir of positivity.

Incorporate sensory delights tailored to our environment. Savor the burst of fresh coconut water from a roadside seller, or listen to the call to prayer echoing through Muslim quarters in the north. These are free, accessible ways to anchor joy in the now.

Finally, share the joy. Invite a friend for a simple walk to the stream or a chat over garri and groundnut. In our communal culture, joy multiplies when passed on.

As we wrap up, remember that creating joy in ordinary moments is a choice, one that honors the richness of Nigerian life. It's in the laughter over spilled soup, the high-fives after a market deal, the quiet contentment of a family meal. By leaning into these, we not only enrich our days but also inspire those around us. So, next time you're in the thick of it, pause and seek that spark—it's closer than you think.

Practical Takeaways to Get Started

• Morning Ritual: Begin your day with a five-minute stretch while listening to your favorite Naija playlist. Feel the energy build.

• Chore Twist: Pair one daily task with a positive association, like podcasts during cleaning or family stories while cooking.

• Connection Challenge: Initiate one genuine conversation in an everyday setting, like with a vendor or neighbor.

• Evening Reflection: End the day noting three ordinary joys—keep a jar and review them weekly for a boost.

• Community Spark: Organize a small, no-cost gathering, like a neighborhood storytelling night during the next outage.

These steps aren't about perfection; they're about presence. Try them, adapt to your life, and watch how the ordinary transforms.