Embracing Joy: A Non-Negotiable in Your Self-Care Toolbox
Embracing Joy
A Non-Negotiable in Your Self-Care Toolbox
Have you ever caught yourself smiling unexpectedly, feeling a sudden burst of warmth in your chest, or experiencing a moment of pure, unadulterated happiness? That, is joy – and it's time we talk about why it deserves a permanent spot in your self-care routine.
What is Joy, Really?
Joy is like the confetti of emotions – sudden, unexpected, and oh-so-colorful. It's that high-intensity feeling that washes over you in short bursts, leaving you feeling connected to others, to nature, or to the universe at large…and to yourself. I love to think of it, joy is "the good mood of the soul", words Brene Brown often uses also.
But here's the kicker: joy isn't just a fleeting emotion. It's a powerful force that can expand your thinking, broaden your attention, and fill you with a sense of freedom!
The Joy Conundrum: Why Do We Squeeze It Out?
Now, here's a question for you: When was the last time you truly embraced a moment of joy? If you're scratching your head, you're not alone. In our fast-paced, productivity-obsessed world, we often find ourselves squeezing out these precious moments of joy. But why?
Are we too busy chasing deadlines to notice the rainbow after the rain?
Have we convinced ourselves that joy is a luxury we can't afford in our packed schedules?
Do we feel guilty for a moment of joy?
Or are we simply out of practice in recognizing and savoring these moments?
Reconnecting with Joy: Your Personal Joy Treasure Hunt
It's time for a little self-reflection. Grab a pen and paper (or your favorite note-taking app) and consciously observe in yourself:
What brought you joy as a child? (Hint: It's okay if it still does!)
When was the last time you felt truly joyful? What were you doing?
Who are the people in your life that spark joy when you're around them?
What small, everyday occurrences make you smile?
Making Joy Non-Negotiable: Your Daily Dose of Delight
Now, here's a radical idea: what if joy wasn't just a nice-to-have, but a non-negotiable part of your day? Imagine starting each morning with the intention to experience at least one moment of pure joy. How might that shift your perspective?
Here are a few ways to invite more joy into your daily life:
Joy Spotting: Set a daily challenge to spot moments of joy. It could be as simple as a child's laughter or the perfect cup of coffee (or green tea).
Joy Journaling: End each day by writing down one joyful moment you experienced.
Joy Sharing: Make it a habit to share your joyful moments with others. Joy is contagious, after all!
Joy Creation: Actively create opportunities for joy. Dance in your living room, call an old friend, or try a new hobby.
The Ripple Effect of Joy
Here's the beautiful thing about joy – it doesn't just benefit you. When you embrace and radiate joy, it has a positive contagion effect on those around you. Your joy can be the spark that ignites someone else's day.
As researcher Matthew Kuan Johnson explains, while experiencing joy, we don't lose ourselves – we become more truly ourselves. Colors seem brighter, movements feel freer, and smiles come involuntarily. Some even describe spontaneous weeping as part of the overwhelming experience of joy.
A Challenge to You
So, I challenge you to make joy a non-negotiable part of your self-care toolbox. Start small if you need to – aim for one moment of recognized joy each day. Then watch as those moments multiply, creating a ripple effect of positivity in your life and the lives of those around you.
Remember, joy is not just a fleeting emotion – it's a powerful tool for wellbeing, a connector to our truest selves, and a gift we can share with the world.
What will your first intentional moment of joy be today?