Joyful

Ingrid Fatell Lee

Designer and author of Joyful: The Surprising Power of Ordinary Things to Create Extraordinary Happiness, Lee has studied the phenomenon of joy across the world through the lens of evolutionary psychology and found that simple changes in our environment can make profound changes to our mindset and behavior.

Her book parses out the triggers that almost universally "spark joy" in humans of all ages.  See below for resources and my interpretation of the 10 Aesthetics of Joy and suggestions for ways to incorporate them into your life and your practice.

The 10 Aesthetics of Joy

Definition: Vibrancy that comes from bright colors and light, creating an uplifting atmosphere.

Examples in Real Life: A field of wildflowers, neon signs, or a sunny yellow room.

In Personal Life: Add colorful accents like throw pillows, artwork, or bright clothing.

In a Classroom: Use colorful posters, vibrant bulletin boards, or bright supplies & tools.

In a Digital Classroom: Incorporate bold, cheerful color schemes in slides and online platforms; use animated or interactive elements to convey energy.

Definition: Whimsy and fun that bring out a sense of curiosity and exploration.

Examples in Real Life: A playground, interactive exhibits, or a playful mural.

In Personal Life: Create a playful space with board games, quirky decor, or hobbies like LEGO sets.

In a Classroom: Include hands-on activities, gamified learning, or a playful corner with puzzles or toys.

In a Digital Classroom: Use gamified apps like Kahoot, or include interactive games, avatars, or scavenger hunts in lesson plans.

Definition: Delight from the unexpected, like hidden details or elements of wonder.

Examples in Real Life: A jack-in-the-box, a surprise party, or a hidden garden.

In Personal Life: Hide tiny notes or add unexpected decor, like a whimsical doorknob or patterned drawer liners.

In a Classroom: Incorporate surprise elements like unexpected challenges or mystery box activities.

In a Digital Classroom: Add surprise pop-ups during lessons or share fun, unexpected content like memes or gifs.

Definition: Joy in plentifulness, often seen in repetition or lushness.

Examples in Real Life: A fruit market, a flower garden, or a starry sky.

In Personal Life: Use gallery walls, collections, or cozy textiles like layers of blankets and pillows.

In a Classroom: Fill walls with student art, bookshelves with resources, or create "abundance areas" with plants.

In a Digital Classroom: Use backgrounds with repetitive patterns, digital libraries, or robust discussion boards with multiple threads.

Definition: Open spaces and the feeling of unbounded possibility.

Examples in Real Life: A wide-open field, minimalist spaces, or expansive views.

In Personal Life: Declutter your space or go to open natural areas like parks or beaches.

In a Classroom: Arrange furniture for spaciousness or take learning outside when possible.

In a Digital Classroom: Use clean, open layouts in your platform; minimize cluttered visuals.

Definition: A sense of balance and order that feels calming.

Examples in Real Life: A symmetrical garden, a Zen space, or perfectly arranged shelves.

In Personal Life: Use color coordination, tidy storage solutions, or matching sets in your decor.

In a Classroom: Use color-coded supplies, organize seating, or display symmetrical wall decor.

In a Digital Classroom: Design slides with balanced layouts and use consistent fonts, colors, and icons.

Definition: A sense of lightness and elevation that inspires awe.

Examples in Real Life: A cathedral ceiling, a view from a mountaintop, or floating lanterns.

In Personal Life: Incorporate hanging lights, lightweight fabrics, or open windows for light and air.

In a Classroom: Use high ceilings or hang inspirational art and mobiles to create a sense of upward movement.

In a Digital Classroom: Use soaring visuals like starry skies, clouds, or inspiring video clips.

Definition: Wonder and mystery, often evoked by illusions, lights, or unexpected beauty.

Examples in Real Life: Fireflies, twinkling fairy lights, or optical illusions.

In Personal Life: Add candles, string lights, or iridescent decor to your space.

In a Classroom: Use glow-in-the-dark elements, mood lighting, or optical illusions in lessons.

In a Digital Classroom: Include animations, holographic designs, or interactive "magic tricks" in digital presentations.

Definition: Expressing joy through exuberant gatherings, patterns, and sounds.

Examples in Real Life: Fireworks, parades, or party decorations.

In Personal Life: Celebrate with festive decor, music, or seasonal traditions.

In a Classroom: Host mini-celebrations for achievements, birthdays, or milestones with decor and music.

In a Digital Classroom: Use celebratory emojis, sound effects, or shout-outs for student achievements.

Definition: The joy of fresh starts, growth, and natural cycles.

Examples in Real Life: Spring blossoms, a rainy day clearing, or a freshly cleaned space.

In Personal Life: Add houseplants, refresh linens, or engage in self-care routines.

In a Classroom: Incorporate plants, natural materials, or seasonal refreshes for bulletin boards and decor.

In a Digital Classroom: Use themes of growth in visuals, offer “reset” opportunities like revision weeks, or update designs seasonally.

Learn More About It

The Ted Talk that started it all

Big Think Design Hack

Big Think:  What is minimalism really doing for our brains?

How color saved a city and can save your sanity.

Check out Ingrid's beautiful website!