Joy

This is your life.


Right now. Not five years from now, not when the timing is perfect, but in this very moment.


Because the time is perfect right now.


This is the time when you get to be the main character of your own story—one filled with beauty, adventure, and joy.


You don’t need grand gestures or life-altering changes to make it happen. Joy is in the little things, and those little things add up to a life well-lived.


If you’ve ever felt like you’re waiting for someday—for the perfect time to enjoy life, for someone to give you permission, for the right circumstances—let this be your sign. The time is now. And it starts with simple, intentional choices that bring you joy every day.


Here’s how:


Take Pretty Pictures


The world is full of beauty, and when you take the time to capture it, you begin to see life through a new lens—one of appreciation and wonder. Whether it’s a stunning sunset, a delicate flower, the steam curling from your morning coffee, or even a selfie that makes you feel radiant, taking pictures is a way of saying, this moment matters. And it does.


Share a picture in the comments… a great picture or just a snapshot of something you love. The thing that makes it special is that you love it.


Feel Like the Main Character


What would it feel like to feel like the star in a movie or a Broadway show?

How would it be to take charge of your own story? Imagine your favorite heroine—how does she move through her day? How does she dress? What kind of music does she listen to? What small rituals bring her joy?


Now, bring that energy to your own life. Stand tall. Walk with confidence. Wear the outfit that makes you feel beautiful.


Say yes to the things that excite you and no to the ones that drain you. You are the star of this show—make it a good one.


Light a Candle


There’s something magical about soft candlelight that transforms even the most ordinary evening into a sacred moment.


Light one while you read, while you soak in a warm bath, or while you cook dinner.


Choose a scent that makes you feel happy or nostalgic—lavender for relaxation, citrus for energy, vanilla for comfort. This small act is a way of signaling to yourself: I deserve a beautiful life.

Tell me, do you like candles? When do you light them? What is your favorite? How do you feel when you have a favorite candle lit in front of you. .

This is a great example of how something that brings joy and meaning to one person may not have the same impact on others. I, for example, NEVER light a candle just for fun. I don't enjoy them, don't like the scents. But so what… that is MY journey, not yours.


Do candles bring joy and meaning to your life? write a note in the comments to tell me what you enjoy about candles. How do you feel when you have a lit candle nearby?


Read Books


Do you like to read? If you do, you know that reading can be a gateway to new perspectives, wisdom, and adventure.


Whether you love historical fiction, self-discovery books, memoirs, or poetry, make time for reading.


It is the same as making time for yourself… that will help you bring more joy and meaning into your life


Let yourself get lost in a novel, learn something new, or be inspired by stories of resilience and joy. Books remind us that we are never alone in our experiences.


I like novels… I get to imagine if I would make the same choices as the people in the books or if I would enjoy living where they live.


If you like thoughtful and somewhat playful novels, one of my favorites is called "How to Read a Book." Let me know if you take the time and what you think of it!


Go for a Walk


There’s something about walking that clears the mind, lifts the spirit, and reconnects you with the world around you. Whether it’s a stroll through your neighborhood, a walk along the beach, or simply stepping outside to breathe in fresh air, movement brings clarity and peace.


There is so much to notice. Even on a quiet day or a quiet street, you can notice the sky, the trees, the sounds of birds or children playing. Let nature remind you that life is happening now—and it’s beautiful.


I am trying to show you how such small changes in your life can bring great joy and meaning. Many people believe their spirituality is deeply connected to Nature.


So go outside for a bit… what do you see? Do you see something you haven't noticed before?

Share in the comments…


Dance to Your Favorite Music


Have you found that music has an impact on your mood? I have found that music has a way of shifting my mood in an instant. A familiar melody that takes me back to another time in my life can change everything.


And when we combine music with movement, the impact can be even more profound.


So, here’s a simple but joyful invitation: Put on a song that makes you want to move. And then… let go.


Give it a try… dance in the kitchen while making dinner, sway gently in your chair, or tap your feet to the beat. Move in whatever way feels natural and joyful to you.


You get to choose the dance! You get to be in the present moment, connecting with your body, celebrating your ability to move and experience joy.


This stage of life is about rediscovering what lights you up and makes you feel alive. Dancing, in all its forms, is one way to tap into that joy—and it’s just a song away.


Buy Yourself Little Presents


How often do we wait for others to give us a little something special—a bouquet of flowers, a heartfelt note, or a thoughtful treat?


Do you ever buy anything for yourself? think hard!

Treating yourself isn’t about extravagance or being selfish. It is about knowing what you want and getting it for yourself.


A small gift to yourself can serve as a reminder that you matter and that your love and care for yourself are just as important as the care you’ve given to others.


Imagine how it would feel to surprise yourself with:

💐 A bouquet of fresh flowers to brighten your space

📖 A beautiful journal to capture your thoughts and dreams

🧴 A luxurious hand cream that makes every moment feel indulgent

☕ A cozy mug and your favorite tea for a peaceful afternoon

🎨 A set of paints, knitting supplies, or whatever inspires your creativity


These small, meaningful treats can lift your spirits, remind you of your inherent worth, and bring little moments of joy into your day.


Do What Brings You Joy


There are no rules. Your joy is unique to you. Maybe it’s painting, gardening, writing, baking, traveling, or simply sitting in the sun with a cup of tea. Give yourself permission to do the things that make your heart light up—without guilt, without justification.


Joy isn’t frivolous; it’s essential. The more you embrace it, the more it will ripple into every aspect of your life. Try to do something joyful every day.


This is Your Life. Enjoy Every Minute.


You are in your Act3, and it’s time to make it the most joyful, meaningful act yet.


You don’t need anyone’s permission. You don’t have to wait. Start now. Savor the little things, embrace what makes you happy, and show up for yourself every day. This is your story—make it extraordinary.


And I am here to help…


The answers lie within you—I’d be honored to explore with you.

Warmly, Melinda

Whenever you are ready, I invite you to schedule a complimentary Jumpstart call to discuss how the Art of Act3 Life Coaching may be right for you.

Do you want more out of life but you are unsure of how to get there?

If the answer is yes, take a look at the Act3 Blueprint. It was designed with you in mind.

“Act 3” was inspired by Julie Shifman's book...

Act 3: Create The Life You Want After Your First Career And Full-Time Motherhood.

© 2025. MELINDA SHORR. ACT3LIFECOACHING.COM

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