Top 30 everyday surprises that bring joy to Brits – including getting a parking spot

Finding a parking spot without driving around, realising it’s a Thursday when you thought it was Wednesday and finding £10 in a pair of jeans you haven’t worn in ages are among life’s top unexpected moments of joy, according to a recent survey.

A poll of 2,000 adults who work Monday to Friday found 33% actively look for ‘little unexpected joys’ to make a dreary day better. With the average person experiencing at least three a week and 21% most relying on them in the middle of the week to help uplift their day.

Other moments of joy included getting home just before it starts raining, a delivery arriving in the scheduled time and remembering bags for the supermarket.

The research was commissioned by Gala, who launched a ‘Push for Joy’ button on the streets of Manchester this week in a bid to bring a little extra joy to the North West.

A spokesperson from the brand said: “Sometimes it is the little things that can give you the most joy. In a busy week, those unexpected moments can help shift your mindset and add a bit of lightness to your day.

“It can also make the feeling even more rewarding when it comes when you least expect them. It’s a reminder that even on the most routine days, there are still opportunities to find small pockets of happiness.”

The study also found 19% get joy from ticking everything off their to-do list, whereas 17% love finding a TV show with loads of episodes already available, or realising it’s a bank holiday Monday the following week (17%).

More than a fifth (22%) find their energy levels start high at the beginning of the week and gradually drop off by the end. But for 69%, Monday was found to be their least favourite day of the week, with as many as 51% generally disliking or hating it.

Work-related stress (27%), feeling tired or lacking energy (22%) and technology not working properly had the biggest impact on the way people feel.

Whereas time-related wins have the biggest positive impact on people’s day (26%) – from no queues to finishing work early.

Thirty three percent of those who took part in the study by OnePoll.com said an ‘unexpected win’ often lifts their emotions positively for the rest of the day.

The button will head to Brighton on the 13th July, inviting Brits to press it for the chance to win a variety of joy-related prizes including the chance to win a holiday.

A spokesperson for the brand added: “It’s clear that people don’t need big milestones to feel better, it’s often the quick, everyday wins that make the biggest difference.

“A small boost at the right moment can shift your mindset entirely and help you move through the day in a more positive way.

“Those flashes of good fortune and ease can be just as powerful as something you’ve been planning or working towards.”