Joy!
I feel the need to write about joy today.
I’m not sure why other than the fact that it sounds like a great topic. Just writing the word “joy” lifts my spirit. I recently read that feeling joyful is not related to our circumstances. Feeling joy is a state of being. Do you know people that always seem joyful? Do you wonder how life must be amazing for them to always express joy? As human beings, everybody has challenges and upsets and some people remain steady in their joy.
“If we can just let go and trust that things will work out the way they're supposed to, without trying to control the outcome, then we can begin to enjoy the moment more fully. The joy of the freedom it brings becomes more pleasurable than the experience itself.”
― Goldie Hawn
Goldie has a great point. If we can be more trusting and unattached, we would definitely experience more joy in the process. I think what robs me of my joy is too much negative story telling in my brain. Worry, fear, and uncertainty are all joy stealers! If I catch myself worrying, I ask myself “What’s the worst thing that can happen?” and “Is there anything I can do about this right NOW?” When I break those questions down, I typically find my way back to peace. So, how do we cultivate more joy?
Joy is defined as “a feeling of great pleasure and happiness”. Can we influence our happiness?
You bet we can! There is an actual Science of Happiness. Case studies show that people are more productive and engaged with work when they experience happiness. This impacts higher customer satisfaction, profit, safer work environments, and less employee turnover.
There are also many physical benefits to happiness. Lower heart rate and blood pressure, boosted immune system, the release of the stress hormone cortisol, less muscle aches and pains, and less heartburn to name a few. If we feel better, we can do more! When we do more, we feel better and happier. There seems to be a very powerful cycle here.
While some people have a genetic predisposition to be happy, we can implement actions that encourage more happiness. Here are some of examples:
Practice random acts of kindness
Go outside
Spend time near water
Smell fragrant flowers
Smile
Nurture your relationships
Exercise
Play a game (Pickleball is my recommendation!)
Keep a gratitude journal
I also highly recommend “The Art of Happiness” by the Dalai Lama. This is one of those books that can be referred to over and over. Double down on building and sustaining happiness! Then, you will be…
Oh so Joyful!!!
With joy in my heart,
Fundamental #24: ASSUME POSITIVE INTENT
Work from the assumption that people are good, fair, and honest. Set aside your own judgments or preconceived notions, and give people the benefit of the doubt. Look for the positive intent in their actions and communications.
