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Big Dreams, Daily Joys: Set goals. Get things done. Make time for what matters.
Big Dreams, Daily Joys is an empowering guide to establishing healthy habits so that it's easy (and fun!) to accomplish long-term goals.
This productivity book is filled with simple-to-follow techniques, rituals, and exercises for accomplishing day-to-day tasks and making progress on bigger goals.
For those who feel overwhelmed by endless to do listsand the stresses that come with daily life, Big Dreams, Daily Joys encourages a simple and achievable productivity practice.
* Offers tips on how to organize a productive day and overcome the urge to procrastinate
* Teaches skills on how to make space for creativity and achieve a healthy work-life balance
* The ultimate handbook to getting things done with clarity, joy, and positivity
Big Dreams, Daily Joys is an invaluable resource for anyone who is tackling a creative project, running their own business, or simply trying to manage time more efficiently.
This book gives readers the tools to develop their own productivity practice and tips for reflection, celebrating accomplishments, and setting achievable goals.
* Written by maker and doer Elise Cripe (@elisejoy)
* The perfect gift for creatives, freelancers, entrepreneurs, fans of daily journaling and bullet journals, people looking to take more time for themselves, and anyone interested in personal growth, goal setting, and alignment
* Great for fans of Start Where You Are: A Journal for Self-Exploration by Meera Lee Patel, The Crossroads of Should and Must: Find and Follow Your Passion by Elle Luna, and Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals by Rachel Hollis
This productivity book is filled with simple-to-follow techniques, rituals, and exercises for accomplishing day-to-day tasks and making progress on bigger goals.
For those who feel overwhelmed by endless to do listsand the stresses that come with daily life, Big Dreams, Daily Joys encourages a simple and achievable productivity practice.
* Offers tips on how to organize a productive day and overcome the urge to procrastinate
* Teaches skills on how to make space for creativity and achieve a healthy work-life balance
* The ultimate handbook to getting things done with clarity, joy, and positivity
Big Dreams, Daily Joys is an invaluable resource for anyone who is tackling a creative project, running their own business, or simply trying to manage time more efficiently.
This book gives readers the tools to develop their own productivity practice and tips for reflection, celebrating accomplishments, and setting achievable goals.
* Written by maker and doer Elise Cripe (@elisejoy)
* The perfect gift for creatives, freelancers, entrepreneurs, fans of daily journaling and bullet journals, people looking to take more time for themselves, and anyone interested in personal growth, goal setting, and alignment
* Great for fans of Start Where You Are: A Journal for Self-Exploration by Meera Lee Patel, The Crossroads of Should and Must: Find and Follow Your Passion by Elle Luna, and Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals by Rachel Hollis
176 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2019
111 people are currently reading
1059 people want to read
About the author
Elise Blaha Cripe
2 books1,040 followersElise Blaha Cripe is a creative entrepreneur professional goal setter. In 2015 she created GET TO WORK BOOK, a planner brand with products designed to help you break big goals into smaller action items.
Since 2005, Elise has been sharing her thoughts and DIY projects online and continues to inspire her audience with her upbeat and encouraging style and her "just start!" attitude.
Elise lives with her husband and two daughters in Northern California where she loves to sew, knit and is trying to become a better gardener. Connect with Elise at elisejoy.com or on Instagram @elisejoy.
Since 2005, Elise has been sharing her thoughts and DIY projects online and continues to inspire her audience with her upbeat and encouraging style and her "just start!" attitude.
Elise lives with her husband and two daughters in Northern California where she loves to sew, knit and is trying to become a better gardener. Connect with Elise at elisejoy.com or on Instagram @elisejoy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
October 16, 2019
How do I write this without sounding dramatic... I am drowning and this book was a lifesaver.
October 14, 2020
I thought this a great little book! It's full of inspiration for steps and exercises to take to achieve your goals, whatever they may be. I like that it's written in a general way so that people with different types of goals can apply the methods and strategies highlighted. I loved the message of not being scared to just start. So much of it was just to get started and take the steps, even if they scare or intimidate you. I love this!
October 16, 2019
I've followed Elise online for several years, and I've always been drawn to her message and the way she delivers it. When this book was available for pre-order, I bought it right away. When it shipped to me, I read it in a day and a half. (Very uncommon for me in my current season of life with a toddler and an infant.) It's written in a clean, engaging way that keeps you turning pages, it's organized in digestible, short chapters, and the message is focused and impactful. I had been facing my own big project but dragging my feet, so the timing of me reading this book was impeccable. It was the kick in the pants I needed to dive into my project and make progress. And I am! This book is going to be one I reread often (it's now become part of my dresser decor), and I bought a copy to give to a friend as a gift too. It's a very practical, significant, enjoyable book, and I think every single person could benefit from reading it (regardless of if goal setting is your "thing" or not.)
December 31, 2019
This book is incredibly relatable and more importantly, helpful, whether you are great at getting things done or not. If you are a maker, a small-business owner, someone in your first job or your 15th, someone about to start a family or a different sort of great adventure - this book will help you think about how you actually spend your time, how you want to spend your time, and what you want your life to be about. I am a psychologist focused specifically on leadership development in my day job, so I tend to be goal-oriented and good at getting things done. Even still - this book helped me think critically and intentionally about my relationship with social media, how to feel good about abandoning things that are no longer important to "current me", and ways to find 10-15 minutes every day for joy. What I have found since I read the book is that I am reading (non-work books!) more, spending less time on social media, getting exercise more consistently each week, making a list of all the "joyful" things that I could do if I have 10-15 minutes a day, and actually making progress on them! Elise's voice is nonjudgmental, encouraging, funny, and so practical. Reading this book will feel like an incredibly inspiring coffee date with a good friend where you can't wait to get home and rearrange your home...and maybe your entire life.
January 19, 2023
Reading this book was like sitting down with Elise, having a cup of coffee, and talking about life and goal setting. I love to highlight quotes I want to remember, or ideas that mean something or inspire me. I don’t think there’s a spread in this book that doesn’t include a passage that’s highlighted!
I could go on about the style of the book, the colors, the design, the layout… All of that made it so easy to read and so quick to get through. In fact I probably would’ve read it in one sitting if that whole work thing didn’t get in the way, LOL.
What’s most important, though, is what the author SAYS. If you’ve been following her, as I have, from her blogging days through her Instagram account, she’s shared a lot of these ideas over the years. But to have them all in one place, somewhere I could go back and refer to when I need some encouragement, THAT’S what this book is all about! We really *can* do what we set our minds to do, and Elise helps us get through the forest without getting lost in the trees.
Do you need help setting goals for yourself? Do you need help achieving them? Do you need help planning how you’re going to get from idea A to result Z? Read this book!
I could go on about the style of the book, the colors, the design, the layout… All of that made it so easy to read and so quick to get through. In fact I probably would’ve read it in one sitting if that whole work thing didn’t get in the way, LOL.
What’s most important, though, is what the author SAYS. If you’ve been following her, as I have, from her blogging days through her Instagram account, she’s shared a lot of these ideas over the years. But to have them all in one place, somewhere I could go back and refer to when I need some encouragement, THAT’S what this book is all about! We really *can* do what we set our minds to do, and Elise helps us get through the forest without getting lost in the trees.
Do you need help setting goals for yourself? Do you need help achieving them? Do you need help planning how you’re going to get from idea A to result Z? Read this book!
October 23, 2019
This is a book I’m going to be recommending out to a lot of family, friends, and colleagues. Many of the concepts in this book weren’t brand new to me, I’ve been focused on personal and professional goal setting for many years. What really blew me away was her delivery – lighting a gentle fire under my bum to take more ownership over my goals and be practical about the process.
Although I’ve been setting goals for years (and making some progress), I was often completely overwhelmed by my to-do lists and the expectations I had set for myself. As a people-pleaser, it’s easy for me to lose sight of what I really want (Is this goal really mine or just a goal I feel I SHOULD have). It was almost as if Elise was giving me permission to let go of the guilt and pressure. I loved the practical, hands-on, exercises Elise included. It really helped me clarify my goals, break them down into manageable chunks, and know when to LET GO.
I listened to this on audiobook and it was read by the author (Elise, your voice is so soothing). I think that’s a great way to read this book, but I plan to also buy a hard copy to re-read and lend out.
Although I’ve been setting goals for years (and making some progress), I was often completely overwhelmed by my to-do lists and the expectations I had set for myself. As a people-pleaser, it’s easy for me to lose sight of what I really want (Is this goal really mine or just a goal I feel I SHOULD have). It was almost as if Elise was giving me permission to let go of the guilt and pressure. I loved the practical, hands-on, exercises Elise included. It really helped me clarify my goals, break them down into manageable chunks, and know when to LET GO.
I listened to this on audiobook and it was read by the author (Elise, your voice is so soothing). I think that’s a great way to read this book, but I plan to also buy a hard copy to re-read and lend out.
January 11, 2020
3.5 stars
I’ve followed the author for a long time so I’ve heard/observed a lot of what she has to say. And I’ve read a lot of time management and goal setting books. There was good information in here, but nothing that made me whip out a pen and notebook.
The layout of the book is great, love the graphic design. The short chapters are easily digestible. For someone new to the topic I think the book would be wonderful.
I’ve followed the author for a long time so I’ve heard/observed a lot of what she has to say. And I’ve read a lot of time management and goal setting books. There was good information in here, but nothing that made me whip out a pen and notebook.
The layout of the book is great, love the graphic design. The short chapters are easily digestible. For someone new to the topic I think the book would be wonderful.
May 25, 2020
just the pep talk i needed for right now. lots of actionable things & reasonable advice, so i took lots and lots of notes. i’m excited to keep this one on the shelf and return to it. also, it’s just really beautiful.
December 6, 2020
This was excellent! A book I will refer back to over & over.
January 21, 2020
3.5 stars, really. I enjoyed this book and the layout and graphics were a beautiful accompaniment. Definitely one to check out as a physical copy. I was glad the library got a copy of this at my request! This is a step above a picture book for adults (and I mean that as a great compliment!)
The format of this book is 4 main sections divided mainly into one-page 'chapters' with quick-hit advice. Some of this advice was very basic, but some was novel to me as well. I struggled a little with the format because I tend to work better with in-depth explanations and examples, which were limited by the one-page format. I think this was potentially limiting to Elise's scope and voice.
I think this would be a great book to own, because it is filled with practical tips and advice that work on their own. You could pick up the book, flip to a page, and put those words into action pretty easily. I don't know that this contained anything truly groundbreaking to me, but it was inspirational and I hope it does me some good. Perhaps I am seeking some magical formula for gettin' stuff done that doesn't exist?
If you've done any in-depth reading on goal-setting and routines, this probably won't bring you much new information. However, if you're looking for help *starting* and feel overwhelmed by everything on your to-do list, I'd recommend perusing this book in bite-sized pieces.
The format of this book is 4 main sections divided mainly into one-page 'chapters' with quick-hit advice. Some of this advice was very basic, but some was novel to me as well. I struggled a little with the format because I tend to work better with in-depth explanations and examples, which were limited by the one-page format. I think this was potentially limiting to Elise's scope and voice.
I think this would be a great book to own, because it is filled with practical tips and advice that work on their own. You could pick up the book, flip to a page, and put those words into action pretty easily. I don't know that this contained anything truly groundbreaking to me, but it was inspirational and I hope it does me some good. Perhaps I am seeking some magical formula for gettin' stuff done that doesn't exist?
If you've done any in-depth reading on goal-setting and routines, this probably won't bring you much new information. However, if you're looking for help *starting* and feel overwhelmed by everything on your to-do list, I'd recommend perusing this book in bite-sized pieces.
August 23, 2020
I was so excited to get this book last fall. I follow the author on Instagram and found her to be so motivating and inspiring. Her book was no different. I don’t have the natural drive to make goals, but I know how good it feels to have organization, a plan, and to follow through. This book was not only pretty to look and and with nice heavy pages, but it was full of practical advice, validation, and the perfect level of cheerleading and encouragement (which is hard to come by). When I first started reading it I wanted to underline so much, but the book is just so nice I couldn’t bring myself to do it. I will definitely have my pen in hand ready to mark it up.
As for some of the content itself, because I follow her on Instagram, there are a few techniques (including the 3 things idea - which the author Tsh Oxenreider also uses) that I have used and found they really work. Now, I’ve got some motivation to complete a few tasks I’ve been putting off, as well as planning out some others in a practical bite sized way. Thank you, Elise, for showing how failing is just learning and reminding that we never get anywhere without putting in the work and effort required.
As for some of the content itself, because I follow her on Instagram, there are a few techniques (including the 3 things idea - which the author Tsh Oxenreider also uses) that I have used and found they really work. Now, I’ve got some motivation to complete a few tasks I’ve been putting off, as well as planning out some others in a practical bite sized way. Thank you, Elise, for showing how failing is just learning and reminding that we never get anywhere without putting in the work and effort required.
March 11, 2020
This book is chock full of common sense and motivational tidbits. Nothing is really earth-shattering, but it is motivating. And while I picked it up hoping it would help me "get things done," I found that I was the opposite type of person that this book is designed for: I currently do all the activities that the author is trying to help people find the time for (exercise, creative pursuits, new skills, etc). My problem is that I spend a good chunk of my time doing those things (or planning on doing those things) and not what I should be doing (like cleaning my house, and other "checklist items.")
The blue section was probably the most helpful for me. I definitely spend too much time in the "inspiration cycle," hoard too many ideas, quite often lack motivation, and fear failure. So becoming aware that those are my problems will help me to just get over them and start doing.
The blue section was probably the most helpful for me. I definitely spend too much time in the "inspiration cycle," hoard too many ideas, quite often lack motivation, and fear failure. So becoming aware that those are my problems will help me to just get over them and start doing.
January 2, 2020
There's so much good stuff in here that you'll want to read it more than once to get all of the goodness out of it. This is a great way to kick off the new decade for sure, but would be amazing for any point in the year. Even if you think of yourself as someone who could never set a goal and follow through, I firmly believe that Elise can change your mind. She somehow manages to cover every single "what if" and still make you feel like you'll succeed. Going to sit down with my partner so we can outline a 5 year plan thanks to Elise's advice in this book, and hopefully set some actionable goals for this year to get us started.
Thank you so much Elise for writing this amazing book. I cannot wait to see what you do next.
Thank you so much Elise for writing this amazing book. I cannot wait to see what you do next.
October 20, 2025
I love the simplicity of Elise’s methodology. Too many times we get stuck in our own minds overcomplicating our days. Already I feel much lighter when approaching each day with what needs doing. This book is helping me to organize my thoughts and goals into smaller steps. Its also teaching me to show myself some grace. I realized through reading this book that I’ve just had too many to dos on my list. It’s easy to get lost with an overwhelming informal “list” looming overhead. This book has given me so much clarity plus it is a quick read. I plan to reference it often when I need a pep talk. I also ordered the Get To Work Book by Elise and feel the two compliment each other well!
October 18, 2019
I don’t consider myself a person that has ‘big dreams’. But that did not stop me from picking up this quick read and I’m SO glad I did! I work a M-F, 9-5 job that gets pretty stressful and I have a lot of house projects, personal wellness goals, etc. This book gives so many practical tips for handling the day to day stuff both at work and at home and tackling larger projects while keeping your motivation and momentum up. There are so many gems in this book. I plan to read it again armed with my pen and highlighter. 🤓
December 3, 2019
My head feels clear after listening to this. (I bought the hard copy as well to refer back to more easily.) I've been a fan of Elise for years and this book is no different. It is full of gems of advice and actionable items. This is a perfect read for any time you need a kick to get things done, but it feels especially relevant as 2020—a new year and decade—is just around the corner.
February 3, 2020
What a fun and inspiring book. I follow Elise on instagram and was so excited to read her book. Overall it's very motivational to just get started on the idea- any idea- just get started!!! I loved the art work and quotes and step by step advice. Especially her thoughts on getting used to the word failaure.
July 9, 2020
Section two, “let’s make room for joy”! Need to keep re visiting this.
Especially like three things and “just do it” day.
See also: you gotta do the work and reject the inspiration cycle.
“This is about you (stop comparing).”
Especially like three things and “just do it” day.
See also: you gotta do the work and reject the inspiration cycle.
“This is about you (stop comparing).”
November 17, 2020
Extremely practical. Easy to read. Great graphics. Would be a great annual January read.
December 10, 2019
Carrie Says:
This book outlines fun, creative, and quick ways to create routines in your life and get things done. It’s a perfect read for anyone who is struggling with accomplishing all their goals, or struggling to create goals in the first place. Elise is very matter-of-fact, and made me feel like I was sitting down with a friend to listen to some much-needed advice. She is very forthcoming about her own struggles in life, and how she’s used the methods in the book to get things done.
This book outlines fun, creative, and quick ways to create routines in your life and get things done. It’s a perfect read for anyone who is struggling with accomplishing all their goals, or struggling to create goals in the first place. Elise is very matter-of-fact, and made me feel like I was sitting down with a friend to listen to some much-needed advice. She is very forthcoming about her own struggles in life, and how she’s used the methods in the book to get things done.
June 29, 2020
Ideaal boek voor creatievelingen die een project willen vastpakken en ervoor willen gaan. Ook aan te raden voor wie zijn eerste stapjes in de productiviteitsliteratuur wil zetten! Het boek raakt heel wat zaken aan die je op weg zetten naar een productiever leven en die je helpen in je persoonlijke ontwikkeling.
March 28, 2025
Fun book that helps you focus on your goals and what is necessary to achieve them. Her approach is quite humble and straightforward and feels like having *that* motivational conversation with a kind friend that gets you moving.
August 29, 2021
Whether it’s an Instagram story, blog post, or a book, I love Elise’s voice and attitude about life! Great tips for getting stuff done and making goals and not worrying about failure. Loved it
January 3, 2022
Fantastic book with so many simple thoughts on setting goals and working toward them. I love Elise’s philosophy and the start of the new year was a great time to finally finish this one.
August 29, 2021
This book was fabulous. I’ve followed @elisejoy’s blog and IG for years and years, and always loved her approach to projects.
Also one thing she taught me years ago? Only process email when you can give it your full attention, not on the fly while making tea, for instance. I got bad for awhile during lockdown but I’ve stopped emails on my phone again.
So many nuggets, so much inspiration. I had so many IDEAS just while reading. This is the perfect book for life and work hacking even if you don’t have a creative business. It’s also gorgeous to hold and look at, and I’ll be making it part of my January reads as a jolt of “let’s do this” energy.
She is also a questioner who leans to upholder I’d say, and I love reading non-fiction by questioners. I rated Big Dreams, Daily Joys 5 FANTASTIC 🌟
Also one thing she taught me years ago? Only process email when you can give it your full attention, not on the fly while making tea, for instance. I got bad for awhile during lockdown but I’ve stopped emails on my phone again.
So many nuggets, so much inspiration. I had so many IDEAS just while reading. This is the perfect book for life and work hacking even if you don’t have a creative business. It’s also gorgeous to hold and look at, and I’ll be making it part of my January reads as a jolt of “let’s do this” energy.
She is also a questioner who leans to upholder I’d say, and I love reading non-fiction by questioners. I rated Big Dreams, Daily Joys 5 FANTASTIC 🌟
January 16, 2021
I’ve been a fan of Elise’s work for years and this book did not disappoint. I’ve always admired her ability to set, manage and accomplish goals, so it was great to have what she’s learned about this subject in a straightforward and easy-to-digest book. The book layout and accompanying graphics really made for a complete package. It was nice to read a book about goal setting from an everyday, regular person rather than some lofty, self-proclaimed expert. The tips shared seem manageable and easy to implement. I will be referring back to this book regularly as I work through my goals this year and beyond.
March 15, 2020
I’ve followed Elise online for years and I like her approach and voice. This book was no different. Chapters are an approachable length, the content is very practical and actionable. Especially recommend if you need a kick in the pants to get going.
October 16, 2019
I've followed Elise for a few years now, and I'm always impressed with how she tries a ton of new things and just gets stuff done. I wasn't sure how I would feel about a self-help book, since many of them annoy me. But as other reviewers have said, she is simultaneously no-nonsense and encouraging, and I wrote down a ton of her practical tips as well as inspirational thoughts. I will be referring back to them often.
One of the best big ideas was this: you have exactly enough time for the things that matter to you.
Also: You will for sure be bad at something when you first start.
Also: Open your email inbox only when you are prepared to make decisions.
A couple more favorite quotations (about internet consumption, blech), and then I'm off to make a list of goals, start writing my five year plan, and gather an accountability group...
p. 67-68 “The solution is to think about your own interaction with social media and make some choices. Do you enjoy it? Do you scroll to procrastinate? Do you scroll without thinking about it? Do you feel encouraged after scrolling? Sad after scrolling? Is this activity filling you up or is it emptying you out?...I have to make a choice multiple times a day to not pick up my phone.”
p. 140 “Are you spending three hours looking at other people’s work and only one hour on your own? Can you flip that equation? Three hours for you, just one hour for others?...The more time you spend consuming, the less time you will have to create. And the more time you spend reading the stories of others, the less time you have to write your own.”
One of the best big ideas was this: you have exactly enough time for the things that matter to you.
Also: You will for sure be bad at something when you first start.
Also: Open your email inbox only when you are prepared to make decisions.
A couple more favorite quotations (about internet consumption, blech), and then I'm off to make a list of goals, start writing my five year plan, and gather an accountability group...
p. 67-68 “The solution is to think about your own interaction with social media and make some choices. Do you enjoy it? Do you scroll to procrastinate? Do you scroll without thinking about it? Do you feel encouraged after scrolling? Sad after scrolling? Is this activity filling you up or is it emptying you out?...I have to make a choice multiple times a day to not pick up my phone.”
p. 140 “Are you spending three hours looking at other people’s work and only one hour on your own? Can you flip that equation? Three hours for you, just one hour for others?...The more time you spend consuming, the less time you will have to create. And the more time you spend reading the stories of others, the less time you have to write your own.”
October 15, 2019
I have been looking forward to this book for a while because I love the straightforward, no nonsense yet way Elise presents things on her Instagram account. And the book does not disappoint! First, the book is self is beautifully designed and a true joy to hold and flip through. But more importantly she really breaks down the creative process in a way that fees manageable. She tackles every excuse or challenge you could l possibly come up with for not doing the thing in such a graceful way. In an odd way, I feel like she tells you how to take the emotion of out of the process by recognizing and completely validating all the emotions you might have. I am walking away with pages and pages of notes, scribbles in the margins everywhere and a list of exciting things I want to work towards and also a list of things I’m more than ready to let go of! I’ve already shared with my husband and he’s next in line to read the book and then we’re planning to talk about our five year plans together. If you’re on the fence about this book, don’t be. There is something in here for everyone!
February 12, 2020
I’ve read quite a few books on this topic and overbearing text usually does not work for me.
This book was quite refreshing; the author’s use of colorful illustrations and multiple size fonts made this book a pleasure to read. A delightful and inspiring experience.
A few takeaways:
You’re not going to be able to do everything perfectly, but you will be able to do some things really well. That’s good. It’s more than good, it’s enough.
Wherever you are on your journey, progress is possible.
You’ll fly sometimes. And you’ll fail sometimes. But more important, you’ll learn there isn’t much difference between the two. When you fail, you learn. When you fly, you learn. When you get to the next decision, you take what you know and try again.
To get the work done, you gotta do the work.
This book was quite refreshing; the author’s use of colorful illustrations and multiple size fonts made this book a pleasure to read. A delightful and inspiring experience.
A few takeaways:
You’re not going to be able to do everything perfectly, but you will be able to do some things really well. That’s good. It’s more than good, it’s enough.
Wherever you are on your journey, progress is possible.
You’ll fly sometimes. And you’ll fail sometimes. But more important, you’ll learn there isn’t much difference between the two. When you fail, you learn. When you fly, you learn. When you get to the next decision, you take what you know and try again.
To get the work done, you gotta do the work.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews