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Choosing to be happy or joyful can be a hard task to ask, especially when you are feeling frustrated and in a rut. Follow along as we review 5 ways incorporating new habits and attitudes can inspire you to choose joy in everyday life.
What does it mean to choose joy?
I interpret choosing joy as letting go of things that are out of my control and leaning into the positive overall.
A small example could be hitting traffic on the interstate, and instead of getting frustrated, you can enjoy your playlist a little longer and appreciate the extra listening time.
Try and find examples in your everyday life where you can practice this new way of thinking. Ask yourself, what has frustrated you recently, and why? Getting to the root of your frustration can help move you forward toward letting go the next time.
Try listing all of your accomplishments for the day instead of a to-do list and take pride in all the work you completed.
5 steps towards choosing joy
- Exercise letting go of negative thoughts and feelings
Whether it be resentment, anger, or frustrations, learning to let go of circumstances out of your control is hard work. Acknowledging that is the first step. Try baby steps first with something small and over time you will see the benefits from not sweating the small stuff. This mindset shift is a marathon, not a sprint.
- Get moving
If you are in a funk, try getting your body moving. You do not have to complete a sweaty 50-minute workout (if that is your jam, go for it!), but taking a walk around the block or visiting a nearby park can easily shift your attitude. I always think back to Elle Woods from the movie Legally Blonde when she says, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy…”.
Endorphins are chemically produced in your body and help relieve stress and pain. Try moving your body and feel the difference from before and after. How did you feel? Was there a difference in your mindset and stress level?
- Give yourself grace
Forgiving yourself and showing yourself some patience can help you towards living a more joyful life. Perfectionism can sometimes be a major roadblock towards choosing joy and can present itself in many different ways. It may look like avoidance, procrastination, or low self-esteem to name a few.
Practice giving yourself a break and a pat on the back. Try listing all of your accomplishments for the day instead of a to-do list and take pride in all the work you completed.
- Lean into a hobby
What are some hobbies that interest you? Learning a new skill or hobby can be a great stress reliever. Removing any expectations and just having fun is what hobbies are all about!
My current hobby favorites are trying new recipes, blogging, digital illustrating, and attempting to craft with my Cricut Explore Air 2.
- Prioritize yourself (self-care)
Self-care can mean anything that brings you peace and a sense of calm. Self-care to me looks like a new episode of Real Housewives, a giant blanket, and turning my phone on silent.
Small self-care examples:
- New candle scent
- Reading a new book you are excited about
- Trying a new face mask
- Talking a long walk
- Calling a friend
- Enjoying a tasty smoothie
What does self-care look like to you?
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