Joy can be challenging to come by, especially amid the turbulence of 2020 and all the hardships this year has brought. However, striving to find the joy in everyday life is still a worthwhile pursuit – perhaps even more so when times are tough. Cultivating joyfulness is an ongoing effort, but the wealth of health benefits you’ll receive in return makes it rewarding. What are some straightforward strategies you can use to add joy to every day?
1. Take a Big-Picture Mindset
If you’re someone who spends a lot of time caught up in day-to-day minutiae, challenge yourself to step back and look at your life from a macro view. The changed perspective may give you new insights. For example, despite the hardships associated with quarantining at home for months, maybe it’s been an opportunity to bring your family closer together than ever before.
2. Use Moments of Mindfulness
We all have small pockets of idle time that we can turn into mini meditation breaks. While you’re brushing your teeth or waiting for your teakettle to boil, reflect on what you’re grateful for in that moment. Amid the uncertainties this year has brought, you can still find bright spots to celebrate.
3. Make Time for Hobbies
Even during the busiest day, carve out a few minutes for a pursuit you’re passionate about – whether it’s knitting scarves to keep homeless people warm this winter or reading out loud to your children. Hobbies make you fulfilled and impart more meaning and purpose to your life, which will naturally lead to joy.
4. Set Attainable Goals
If life is starting to feel monotonous or uninspiring, expand your horizons by having a competition with yourself. Consider a goal that takes you out of your comfort zone, like learning a new language or running a 5K, and aim to get 1% better at doing it every day. Though improving by such a small amount daily might not seem like enough, you’ll be surprised by how quickly incremental gains can add up.
5. Live in the Moment
Most of us are usually either dwelling on the past or envisioning the future, but neither mindset will make you more joyful. As Buddhist philosophies teach, genuine joy can only exist in the now. Reliving the past or worrying about what the future might bring can cause anxiety and mental anguish. Learning to stay grounded in the present is an excellent technique to add joyfulness to your life.
6. Tickle Your Funny Bone
Laughing is one of the best ways to find more joy in every day. Laughter has natural healing powers, like releasing endorphins and improving your circulation. Discover a new favorite comedian on YouTube, or watch some of the best comedy movies ever made. However you choose to make yourself laugh, there are no wrong answers.
Discover Your Freedom
If you are a woman living with addiction issues, you can break the cycle of substance abuse and turn over a new leaf with women’s-only treatment at Canyon Crossing. Contact us today to learn more about what we offer.