Lesson to Learn

Joy is an invaluable aspect of our lives. When you observe others laughing and smiling, how does that make you feel? Do you find yourself wishing to share in that happiness? Perhaps you ponder ways to cultivate joy in your own life.

The benefits of joy on our health and well-being are well-established; it not only extends our lifespan but also enriches the quality of our lives. Yet, why is it often a challenge to actively seek joy?

It should be a primary focus in our lives, one that you can prioritize. Thankfully, you likely already recognize what joy looks like for you!

Answer for Me

I have made a commitment to embrace joy. However, during the pandemic, I found it particularly difficult to feel joyful. There were days when simply getting out of bed felt like an insurmountable task, as pain and hardship surrounded me. It seemed almost inappropriate to allow myself to feel joy during such troubling times. What a misconception that was!

Reflecting on the past few years, I recall moments filled with gratitude, laughter, and shared joy. I cherish the times spent with my team celebrating successes, lightheartedly joking, and serving those in need. These were the precious moments of joy that guided me through challenges.

At the onset of the pandemic, I questioned what I could do to assist others while also finding joy myself. I chose to write. For 18 months, I blogged five days a week. This not only brought me satisfaction but also provided a glimmer of joy amidst the surrounding fear and pain. Writing became my anchor, allowing me to stay strong and focused while fulfilling a lifelong dream of being an author.

A crisis can often serve as a catalyst for clarifying what truly matters to us.

Action Steps

Are you experiencing joy on a daily basis? Be truthful with yourself. If the answer is no, what activities bring you happiness? Create a list that encompasses even the simplest pleasures.

For instance, smiling is an easy addition to my list. It’s simple, and I can do it right now! Expand your list as much as possible to provide yourself with more options. What small changes can you implement in your daily life that could enhance your joy?

Select one small habit to begin today. Each day, assess your level of joy on a scale from 1 to 5. By tracking this, you will uncover ways to foster a more positive outlook. This is how our brains operate; focusing on joy can help manifest it in our lives.

Don't feel disheartened if you’re not currently filled with joy. Everyone starts somewhere. What truly matters is your journey ahead. Gradually incorporate small joys into your life and feel the uplifting effects!

Daily Habits

Joy can be cultivated as a habit. Anyone can learn to embrace joy and weave it into their daily existence.

Consider this simple example: smiling. Did you know that a smile is infectious? Go ahead, smile right now. You might just feel a bit better! Smiling not only enhances your mood but also lifts the spirits of those around you.

What activities can you integrate into your day to boost your joy? Maybe it’s taking a short or long walk, catching up with family or friends, or engaging in prayer, meditation, or reflection.

Incorporate these joyful practices into your life without delay. At the end of each day, reflect on your experiences and celebrate even the smallest moments of joy!

Tomorrow offers another chance to pursue joy. Make a commitment to seize it!

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