Finding joy in my life has come by way of so many strategies. Joy did not come overnight, nor is it something that is present in high levels all the time. Still I always have the presence of joy in my life to some degree.
Physical Needs
First, I do my best to take care of my physical needs. I get physical activity by walking and doing physical therapy, I try to eat balanced meals, and I drink plenty of water. Taking care of physical needs improves my mood and can enhance my self-esteem, ultimately leading to a more positive mindset and joy.
Having A Positive Mindset
Having a positive mindset can bring me joy. Using positive self-talk in not-so-pleasant situations can help me stay joyful. Keeping busy with hobbies can distract from pain or anything that’s causing me to be less than happy. Practicing gratitude helps me remain joyful, too. There’s a practice I do called 3 Good Things, and I write 3 things I’m grateful for at the end of the day. Positive affirmations are another way to keep a positive mindset.
The Importance Of Connection
Finding social connection is another way to find enjoyment when living in pain. Whether I’m connected to people in real life, as with my best friend or my neighbor, or online in support groups like Pipsters Place, being with people is another way in which I find joy. Being with people who understand what we’re going through and being connected through our similarities is a way to find joy, even if the situation isn’t the best. Being connected is what’s important.
Learning Radical Acceptance
A skill I learned in therapy is Radical Acceptance. It doesn’t mean I approve or even like a situation. It means I accept the situation as it is, without judgment or resistance, even when difficult or painful. I didn’t learn this skill overnight, but I have to keep practicing it. It’s not an easy one, yet it’s so helpful when it comes to maintaining joy and happiness in my life.
Practicing Faith
Practicing my faith also brings joy to my life. Whether it’s worshipping through singing songs or just listening to praise music, Christian music brings me to a place of pleasure and rejoicing. My faith also provides strength and peace, and when I face life with these in my corner, I’m also more likely to experience joy. And expressing gratitude for my God’s blessings is surely guaranteed to bring more gratification to me.
Fuzzy Friends
Pets can certainly bring joy and happiness to life. From cats to dogs to horses to reptiles, something about being around our animals keeps us wanting more of that warm, fuzzy feeling we get just having them near. I know that my animals have often become my confidant, one of my best friends, always willing to listen. It’s been reported that simply gazing into each other’s eyes causes a spike in oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone, for both the dog and dog owner.
Listen To Your Body
Finally, listening to my body is a huge consideration when it comes to finding joy in everyday life. I have to pace myself in all I do early in my day or I won’t have the energy to enjoy anything I want to do later in my day. I also need to practice patience. Some days I’ll be able to do more than other days. I need to not get frustrated over the ups and downs of what I’m capable of doing at any given time. I just enjoy what I can do when I can. I remember I do not let my pain define who I am or how I feel. And all this brings me joy.
My name is Debby and I’ve been a widow since 2019. I live in mid-Michigan with my cat, BeeAh. I enjoy writing, doing crafts, reading, and shopping, mostly online.
I’m passionate about raising awareness for disabilities, especially those that are invisible. I live with Fibromyalgia, Arachnoiditis, Osteoarthritis, Osteopenia, Chronic Hip Dysplasia, Scoliosis, Degenerative Disc Disease, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), Type 2 Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, Chronic Migraines, Chronic Insomnia, Bipolar Disorder, Seasonal Affective Disorder, Social Anxiety, PTSD, and Complex Grief.
I am deeply committed to my faith, and I choose to live joyfully, not because my circumstances are always joyful, but because I am joy filled! Learn more about Debby on Our Contributors page!