The Gift of Joy

It has been said that joy is an internal feeling expressed by outward happiness—an emotion that can be brought on by exciting or memorable moments in our lives. However, it's also possible that when you are at a place of contentment, joy can be found. The most important thing is finding the things in your life that bring you joy.

During the holidays, it's more common to hear about joy in a Christmas song or carol, commercials, product advertisements, social media posts, and even in greeting cards. This prevalence is likely because it goes hand in hand with the "be merry" sentiment of this time of year. While I agree with this, it's understandable for multiple reasons: having time to spend with loved ones and friends, gift-giving, and time off from work. Joy can truly be something that you make a part of your life.

Like anything that we're intentional about, seeking joy is no different. It can be something that you actively engage in every day. One way to do this would be to make a list of the things you find that bring joy. This could involve checking in on a friend or family member you haven't spoken to in a while, baking a recipe that brings back fond memories, taking the dance class you always wanted to, or simply spending time by yourself reading a good book or journaling.

While we are all different and what brings one person joy may not for another, the key is finding those things that do and doing them. Not only do I believe it will bring balance, but it also supports a healthier physical being. It's a commonly known assertion that happy people live longer.

Seeking ways to foster joy doesn't have to be an occasional thing, only sought during the holidays; it can become a way of being. Naturally, while it's understood you won't feel this emotion all the time, if you open the door to allowing joy to be more present in your life, you'll find all the unexpected ways that it will be the gift that keeps giving year-round! Merry Christmas!

Seeing The Glass Half Full

The old saying raises the question: Do you see the glass as half full or half empty? Much of how we respond to this question depends on our perspective. I don't believe there is any particular way to guarantee that you'll often see the glass as half full; it's my belief that you simply decide to do so. However, I do believe that being mindful of the positive influences around you, learning to seek the things that bring you joy, and practicing presence in the moment can increase the likelihood of having a more positive outlook.

It's true that we can only control ourselves, but it's a well-known fact that the influence of those around us impacts us. Being around positive, uplifting people can support a more optimistic viewpoint, just as the influence of negative, combative, and argumentative relationships can foster a more pessimistic and cynical perspective. Recognizing how others impact you can be the first step in evaluating the adjustments that may need to be made.

When you feel good, this naturally positions you for a more positive outlook on life. Incorporating moments in your day where you can smile, laugh, and do things that bring you joy supports this outcome. It's important to understand that life can bring its share of challenges, but if you make a habit of setting aside time for happiness, it can balance out those times. Simple activities like going for a walk, getting some sun, listening to your favorite music, or enjoying a good book can help you achieve this goal.

Life often tries to force us to reflect on the past or rush into the future. However, being present in life and in moments can create the best opportunity for an optimistic perspective. It allows you to accept what is and recognize the importance of taking each moment as it comes. To do this, you have to accept that staying in the now can bring peace and, as a result, a more positive outlook.

Choosing to be optimistic is a choice, but one that is generally nurtured with the right ingredients. Assessing the influence of the people in your life, being intentional about the things that bring you joy, and mastering the art of being present are key components. While we can't control everything, we can control our perspective. Make it a point to see the glass as full today, no matter what!

The Balancing Act

"B.A.L.A.N.C.E.: Most of us say we want it, but the problem lies in being intentional about achieving it. Finding balance in your life could truly be the game-changer you've been needing. There are a number of reasons to focus on it; it's said that we're happier, more productive, and it supports better mental health when we are.

They say that happy people live longer, and I say, 'That sounds good to me!' If you combine that with the possible correlation between some of the happiest people also having more balance, well, that sounds like a winning combination. It's possible because they've been able to find their sweet spot in the areas of their lives that matter most and remove the things from their lives that don't serve them or make them happy.

I'll be honest; I have not been known to have much balance, especially when it comes to work-life balance. But I made a decision about two years ago to make it more of a priority in my daily life. As a result, I have found that I'm actually more productive when I make time during my day, week, month, and year to schedule my time as it relates to work, other commitments, personal time, fitness, meditation, and even rest. The noted difference I've seen has made me continue.

It can't be understated how important our mental health is. While there are a number of factors that can contribute to its decline, there are just as many positive factors that can support good mental health. I've heard that learning to find balance is at the top of the list, and from my experience, I've found it to be true. Learning how to give yourself more grace, rest, and self-care, instead of saying yes to every invite, project, or even food craving, can really be beneficial to improved mental health.

Balance can be very different for each person. The key is recognizing when you don't have that balance and making the necessary adjustment or decision to get it. There is no magic formula, but it can make all the difference in the world as it relates to your happiness, productivity, and mental health, so don't you think you are worth it? I do!"