How to Find Joy in Difficult Times
Finding joy is something we all want and need especially during these trying times. But is it even acceptable to find joy when there is so much tragedy around us? The answer is yes. Experiencing joy does not discount the tragedy occurring. You can feel sadness about the situation and simultaneously experience joy and happiness. In fact, feeling ALL the emotions right now is pretty normal. If that feeling of guilt creeps up, remember that it’s these joyful moments that will help you through this unprecedented time.
Joy doesn’t just happen though and we have to make a conscious effort to choose it everyday. By taking action you are also building your confidence and empowering yourself to live a more joyful life. Here are 5 ways you can add joy to your life right now:
1. Focus on connecting with those who lift you up
Think of someone who radiates joy and instantly puts a smile on your face. If you can’t connect with them physically, make a point to virtually reach out to that person more often. If you’re with family during this time, do your best to appreciate and value this unique time together. Enjoy the non-rushed meals and the extra time of just being with each other. Near or far we can all help each other experience more moments of happiness.
2. Explore new and old hobbies
Does dancing fuel your fire? Or is gardening your go-to for feeling relaxed? Whatever it may be, find things that make you happy and do more of that. Doing what you love is the best tool to find joy in your life. If you can’t figure out what brings you joy, make a list and write down everything you can think of that makes you happy. Think back to your childhood and what activities brought out that feeling of bliss. Revisit some of those things and incorporate them into your life. It could be doing a puzzle or riding a bike, things that are fun and that will help you relive fond memories. Now is the time to bring out that silly, playful side of you.
3. Intentionally seek out laughter
As the saying goes, laughter is truly the best medicine. Find lighthearted TV shows, movies, or books and let yourself escape. Entertainers from all over the world are doing what they can from their homes to keep others entertained and feeling happy. Attend a virtual concert or watch a funny video to help you find some healthy comic relief. Feeling these positive emotions will keep your spirits up and bring some levity to your day.
4. Appreciate the little things
Try and bring awareness to some of the joyful moments that make up your day. It’s often the simplest things and smallest pleasures that bring us the most joy. These moments are available throughout the day. Joy is there when you’re sipping a warm drink from your favorite mug, appreciating nature’s beauty, taking a bubble bath, or listening to an uplifting song. Grab it wherever you can, even if it’s in small doses.
5. Become more present
Becoming more present and grounded will ultimately help you spark more joy. You can cultivate this feeling by trying this simple mindfulness practice. Take several deep breaths and place your feet on the ground. Become aware of your bodily sensations. Name 1 thing you hear, 1 thing you smell, 1 thing you can touch and 1 thing you can see. Allow any thoughts to come through your mind and don’t fight them. Taking this moment to pause can help you become more aware and grounded. You’ll start to feel less in “autopilot mode” as you appreciate your surroundings and create more calm and joy.
As you intentionally incorporate more moments of joy, the momentum will build and you’ll feel an overall greater sense of joy in your life. The Dalai Lama once said, “happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.” It’s true. We all have the capacity for joy and you have the power and confidence to create it. How will you practice joy today?