Today, and over the next four weeks, we’ll be talking about finding joy. We continue to hear from many of you that you’re struggling with all that life is throwing your way, and we’d like to support you with that.
You’ve said you’re dealing with things like, uncertainty around health, income, layoffs, and political unrest, the dissolution of a partnership or marriage, or the death or illness of a loved one.
While it may sound counterintuitive for us to suggest that you look closely for joy in your life, studies show that it’s important for your emotional and physical well-being. In addition, it can also support you, your loved ones, and your colleagues as you navigate challenging times.
Actively seeking out joy doesn’t mean that bad things aren’t happening. We found this quote from Rick Hanson, Ph.D., a helpful way to think about it,
“When you tilt toward the good, you’re not denying or resisting the bad. You’re simply acknowledging, enjoying, and using the good. You’re aware of the whole truth, all the tiles of the mosaic of life, not only the negative ones.”
– Rick Hanson, Ph.D., Hardwiring Happiness
We know that some people are hardwired with joy, happiness, and an optimistic view of life. They were born with a tendency toward it.
We also know that a significant portion of joy comes from how we approach our world—how we think about it and what we do in it.
So, to support you during the uncertainties, challenges, and difficult times, we’re going to dive into these four core practices, throughout the month of November: connection, kindness, meaning, and gratitude.
- First, we’ll review the importance of connection with yourself and others, and knowing when you need one versus the other.
- Then, we’ll talk about the ways you can gain the benefits of showing kindness to those in your world without draining your soul.
- In the third week, we’ll explore how identifying your priorities can help you lead your life with a sense of meaning and direction.
- We’ll finish out this series, on Thanksgiving week, with a reminder of the ways gratitude can support you.
Over the next four weeks, consider how you might use some of our suggestions in both your personal and professional life.
Be well.
NOTE: If you’re struggling or are having persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest, we encourage you to reach out to your physician, therapist, or a local mental health line for support. It’s important to take good care of yourself.
If you’d like support
Finding Joy in your days,
contact us today.
