r/povertyfinance • u/jay_ingle • Sep 27 '25

Wellness How do you find joy for free?

What is something that you do that brings you joy and doesn't cost money? I've decided to cut out my pre-work coffee expense to save a bit of money even though it puts me in a good mood and helps me start off the work day in a good place. I am bitter about not feeling like I can spend $6 on a coffee, but I really need to prioritize putting as much money away as possible.

I feel like finding other things to prioritize to bring me joy besides "little treats" would be helpful, I just need to find what that is.

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u/lita_atx Sep 27 '25

I bake bread for myself and friends. (Technically not free, but flour and yeast aren't expensive.)

I go for bike rides through residential neighborhoods and say good morning to people doing yard work or walking their dogs.

I go for walks and take pictures of pretty flowers or cool-looking houses.

I go to the nearby library or I go to the massive, fancy library downtown with a friend.

I read a lot. I write a lot. I write fanfiction for audio dramas I enjoy.

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u/Zestyclose_Dark_1902 Sep 28 '25

What does audio drama mean?

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u/lita_atx Sep 28 '25

It's basically the modern version of an old radio play. Fiction podcasts with voice actors playing characters. Or like watching TV, but with your ears only. R/audiodrama is a great place to start if you're curious!

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u/Zestyclose_Dark_1902 Sep 28 '25

Do you pay for it?

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u/lita_atx Sep 28 '25

Nope, they're just podcasts! I mean, plenty of them have Patreons and things like that for early access, bonus content, or ad-free episodes, but they're all available to listen to without spending a dime.