#11 of An Inspirational Series
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“Dear sweet lady, how in the world can I discover my joy? There are so many things that are in need of attention… I am driving myself crazy with worry.”
This message showed up this morning in my inbox. My heart leaped to a quick prayer for Fran and her request. Then on to figuring how out I could both assist her and encourage her.
At least, she had reached out to me. So many times, when someone needs help, they keep it within themselves. Sometimes, they feel like a failure or they are embarrassed if they reach out for help. If you sense someone needs assistance, you are probably right. Gently ask a few questions and let this person know it’s always ok to ask for whatever they need.
But the real question here was if you have problems, issues, storms, or battles going on in life (and who doesn’t have at least some of this?), how do you discover ‘moments of joy’ in your life?
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A good starting point is to read my Signature Post, “Choosing Joy Every Day.” (Click title to read.)
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Another great article I want to share with you is:
9 Ways to Get Unstuck in Life and Live Fully
This was written by my friend, Jais, at Get Set Happy.
She has included great tips for making peace and moving forward. I hope you’ll check it out.
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First, I quote Lysa Terkeurst, “I don’t have answers, but I do have prayers.” I encourage women to lean on their faith and always take their problems to our Lord in prayer. A few years ago, I was struggling through an unsettled time in my life. My precious friend, Patty, said to me, “The only thing I know to tell you is to stay on your knees and in the Word.” Prayer and studying the Bible will truly carry you a long way down the path to joy.
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Next on my list is gratitude. It is true that the more grateful you are, the more you will have to be grateful for. Start every day with a simple, “Thank you.” It will get your day going on a positive note.
I listened to an interview last week and the guy said that every morning he walks through his home looking out the windows. He expresses thanks ‘out loud’ for everything he sees. Now, I have practiced gratitude for many years but I’ve usually said it silently to myself. Counting your blessings out loud adds another layer to your gratitude.
Writing in a gratitude journal on a daily basis helps you to focus on the good things in your life. Remember to express thanks even for the little things… the sunshine through your window, the bird’s morning song, and food in your tummy.
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You will find more about gratitude in my post, “The Amazing Benefits of Gratitude.” (Click title to read.)
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One of my favorite ideas is to start a JOY Jar. Gather a favorite jar or container along with a stack of colorful pens and note pads. When good things happen, jot them down on a piece of paper and put it in your JOY Jar. Simple and ordinary things that make you smile are perfect examples. When you need a lift, take a few slips of paper from your JOY Jar and relive the warm feelings.
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Find one good thing to focus on. This is another one of my favorite tactics. Try to find something good about the problem you are facing, no matter how small that good thing is. Focus on that one good quality. Or if that doesn’t resonate with you, find something unrelated that feels good and focus on it. Focusing on any one good thought will turn you around quickly. Personally, I have one feel-good thought that I can use anytime.
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Sing, dance, smile, or laugh. You can find even more joyful tips in my post, “Choosing Joy When You Don’t Feel Joyful.” (Click title to read.)
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Think of the people, places, and things that make you feel comforted and happy. Maybe it’s a song… or a snuggly pet… Mom’s homemade cookies… or a special photo. These are ‘moments of joy’ that you can store in your memory bank. Thinking back over these times will give you a sense of peace.
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As you face the storms of life, taking care of yourself is always important. And, self-care means different things to different people. Personally, I enjoy soaking in a deep tub of warm water with fragrant bath salts. You may enjoy a cup of coffee, a chat with a friend, a walk outside. Whatever it is, take time to take care of yourself. You are no good to anyone else if you are a mess. {Smile}
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For further reading, I think you’ll enjoy this article:
4 SIMPLE THINGS TO DO TO BE HAPPIER STARTING TODAY
(Click title to read.)
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A positive mindset is powerful as it infuses your life with a can-do mentality. You start to live your life with the belief that anything is possible.
A positive mindset:
- Cancels doubt and negativity
- Builds resolve and determination
Develop a positive mindset by starting the day with positive affirmations like these from developgoodhabits.com:
Everything will work out for me.
I am a winner.
The tools I need to succeed are in my possession.
Write out your own affirmations and recite them every morning.
Affirmations motivate you to take action to make them come true. Also, try to use positive words no matter the situation. Like I am, I will and I can. When faced with a problem, reframe your thoughts to reflect positivity – I can do this project if I take time to focus on it.
A positive mindset sets you up for success rather than failure.
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You can find more suggestions like having a positive mindset in my post, “5 Simple Keys to Happiness and Joy.” (Click title to read.)
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Probably, the biggest hurdle to discovering your own joy is being able to conquer whatever is standing in your way. Whether it be fear, abuse, marital problems, family issues, your job or unemployment, loss of financial independence, or a long list of many other things… the obstacles need to be addressed.
Likely, you cannot do it all alone. Reach out to trusted friends. You may also need attorneys, accountants, or other professionals. And don’t be afraid or embarrassed to consider therapy.
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Little bitty ‘moments of joy’ every day will eventually lead you down the path to Discover Your Joy. I am praying for you. I am cheering for you. And I look forward to celebrating with you!
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Did you know….. You can have an extra dose of joy delivered right to your inbox once a month.
Just sign up below for my monthly emails.
28 thoughts on “How Do I Discover My Joy?”
great article
Great tips! There are unfortunately so many people who struggle with finding happiness these days. I’m sure your post will help a lot of people.
Thank you, Poppy! You are a kind soul.
I like the idea of a joy jar. I always feel so tired and bogged down and I’m not sure what I really enjoy anymore. My life is mostly easy but lately it seems like one big chore. Definitely time for a mindset change.
Rebecca, definitely try the Joy Jar. It’s a quick and easy boost anytime you need it.
These are great tips. Practicing gratitude is so important. I try to always write 3 things I’m grateful for when I journal.
Louise, you did it again! I just loved this article about finding your joy!
Thank you for your kind words. I’m glad you enjoyed the article.
Great read! Thank you for sharing this. I pray for joy and not just wish for it. There are a lot who struggle to find joy and fail to realize that joy starts within.
You are a wise person. Thanks for sharing.
I definitely need to follow this, especially the random dancing and the joy jar, life has me down at the moment.
Yes! Random dancing and the Joy Jar are magnificent!
Wow love this blog
Jen, thank you so much!
The Joy Jar idea sounds very interesting. I will give it a try.
I believe you will be pleasantly surprised.
Beautiful post Louise. Keep spreading your love, your wisdom, your joy 🌸
Thank you, my friend, for your continued support!
Joy is so important. Great read
Yes, I would agree that prayer and conquering whatever negative thing is in your way is a good way to get your joy back. I was in a very toxic work situation for the past year and I finally quit a couple of months ago and I feel like a lot of weight has been lifted off of me. Thank you for sharing – Josie xxx
Your workplace can definitely sap your joy. I’m glad you were able to make a change.
Great tips. I can really put these to use – thanks so much!
Great post! I am a big fan of expressing gratitude each morning and night. Even if it hasn’t seemed like the best day, I feel lighter/happier when I lay down and give thanks for at least three things. There is always something good in each day, even if it’s taking a breath. Thanks for sharing!
You are a breath of fresh air! Thanks for sharing.
So true, a positive mindset is so important
Learning not to worry is a difficult task. I woke up early this morning filled with worry. This is a helpful post. Thank you.
Worry is a natural and common emotion. We have to consciously chase it away every time.
Nicely written. Appreciate it.