Joy is all around us.

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Welcome!

Hi, I’m Ingrid Fetell Lee. A designer and author, I founded the Aesthetics of Joy to help you create more joy in life and work through design.

I’m so glad you’re here. 

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To create more joy with my free resource 50 Ways to Find Joy Every Day.

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The Latest

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Is the Trend Cycle Just Dopamine vs. Cortisol?

Are trend cycles really about nervous system regulation? A deeper look at dopamine dressing, cortisol closets, and the emotional meaning of style.

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The Surprising Psychology of Why Work Feels Harder Than It Should

Many writers hate writing. But what if that misery is less about the work itself and more about the story we're telling ourselves? I tried an experiment — and what I learned about the psychology of expectations changed how I approach my work entirely.

Featured Post
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7 Key Joy Indicators

Though modern life often relegates joy to the margins, joy is our original success metric, evolved to indicate moments of thriving. Here’s how to measure what really matters at work.

You’re invited

Find your people

The Commons is where thoughtful people come for conversations that matter. It's a new kind of digital space built for deep connection, honest reflection, and real joy
— no noise, no algorithms, just kindred spirits exploring what makes life feel truly alive. We can't wait to meet you!

“This book has the power to change everything! Writing with depth, wit, and insight, Ingrid Fetell Lee shares all you need to know in order to create external environments that give rise to inner joy.”

- Susan Cain, Author of Quiet and Founder of Quiet Revolution

More Stories

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Why Pleasure is a Secret Path to Self-Discovery

Why High Expectations are the Secret to Finding More Joy

An image of Ingrid holding a yellow dahlia in front of her face

The Question I Ask When Life Feels Off-Track

Designing Our Way Out of Loneliness

How changing just one room can transform your life (part 2)

How to Decorate on a Budget

How Changing Just One Room Can Transform Your Life

Why Am I So Indecisive About My Decor?

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Book Ingrid to speak at your event,
host a joy workshop, or collaborate.

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Follow us @aestheticsofjoy on Instagram. Don’t forget to tag your photos with #joyspotting when inspiration strikes.

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