How To Fill Yourself With Joy - National Day of Joy
Helen Keller once wrote, “Joy is the holy fire that keeps our purpose warm and our intelligence aglow.” Read those words again and let them soak in.
We don’t mean to get preachy here, but knowing that you are the only one who can truly create joy in yourself and in your loved ones is an important mission in life. As Comfort Keepers National Day of Joy approaches at the end of June, here are some ideas to bring more joy into your life as well as those around you.
Start Enjoying Life Now
Everyone tends to put things off: doctor appointments, estate planning, taking a trip, and so on. However, as each day passes, you should create a mindset to appreciate what life has to offer. Enjoy the small things that you might take for granted: the feel of sunshine on your face, flowers blooming in the spring and the majesty of a clear blue sky. You are the only one who can truly appreciate these things and when you do, don’t forget to share that appreciation with those around you. For instance, show your grandkids the big dipper and explain to them how to always find it. These small, joyous moments will last a lifetime with you and your loved ones.
Be True (and Kind) to Yourself
Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet “this above all: to thine own self be true.” While there may be many literary interpretations of this famous line, it is safe to say that taking care of yourself is key to happiness and joy. If you can’t be happy and content in your own life, it’s hard to share joy and inspiration with others. Treat yourself to what you truly enjoy. Maybe it’s ice cream, a walk in the park, music, or simply a warm bath. Whatever brings you happiness should have prominence in your life.
Don’t Sweat the Small Things
Everyone gets caught up in the day-to-day issues in life: worrying about money, health issues, and what tomorrow might bring. Worrying about things you cannot control is a fruitless effort. Control what you can while doing your best to push out the negative feelings that come with minor issues. Remember, we’re only here for a small amount of time (on a grander scale) so don’t let small problems impact your overall happiness.
Get Involved, Give Back
One of the biggest positives that you can have in your life is the ability to give back to others. Whether it's volunteering for a local nonprofit or cooking dinner for your ailing neighbor, doing good for others is doing good for yourself. Helping others will give you a joyous feeling in your heart. After all, if we can’t give happiness to others, how can we give it to ourselves?
Your Inner Circle
Those around you have a huge impression on your overall mental health. If you are constantly surrounded by negative thoughts, feelings or beliefs this will eventually sour your outlook. If you have a negative person in your life, learn how to manage that relationship so it is helpful for you and them. Talk to those who are giving you a negative outlook and let them know how you feel. Progress can only be made with honesty and openness.
Giggle is Good
The adage, “laughter is the best medicine” could not be more true. It is a key component of your overall happiness. It’s been proven that laughter relieves stress and internal tension while giving your immune system a boost. According to Healthguide, a study in Norway found that people with a strong sense of humor outlived those who don’t laugh as much. The difference was particularly notable for those battling cancer. Dr. Seuss once wrote, “don’t cry because it’s over -- smile because it happened.” These are great words to live by.
Comfort Keepers has found that over 90 percent of people surveyed agree that “the world needs more joy” and nearly as many agree that “joy is more important now more than ever.” Learn more HERE.
