Sometimes I think about what emotions are. Why do we experience feelings like anxiousness or fear? When things seem to be opposing me, I can get down. That’s when I start to think of ways to turn my current state into something more positive. Life is short, be happy as much as possible and so today around the time of year when we wish to experience joy, there are often stressful shopping trips, cramped parking lots and many social engagements to attend. So much love and fun is meant to be had, but at the same time, it can get a bit overwhelming too. I have some thoughts on joy and how to bring it forth when life can throw you a curve ball;)
What is pure joy?
Is it the feeling of accomplishing a goal?
Is it watching your child grow?
Is it overcoming an obstacle?
Is it learning something new or making connections?
Joy is the outcome of giving.
Joy is the release of positive emotion.
Joy is the recognition of watching your child make good choices.
Joy is finding that deep connection with another free of judgment.
How can I find joy everyday?
Be true to your feelings, be genuine.
See each moment for the worth it gives to you.
Look for it in places where it seems vacant.
Bring it with you to others always, it will bring you more joy to give it.
Look into the eyes of each person you talk to, really look.
Smile at people you don’t know.
Look in the mirror and smile when you feel down, really smile.
Find light on days when the sun doesn’t shine.
Use your happiness to extend to others.
Spare some money for someone in need.
Stare into the eyes of your lover each day, give a hug too.
Find common ground in a distanced relationship.
Excuse an outburst that was not thought through.
Most of all- find a strength you have and let it lead you.
Put blinders on and follow the path that feels right.
Your heart doesn’t lie to you, it loves you unconditionally.
Never question your worth, it will forever be priceless.
Best wishes as you prepare this last week before the holidays and always.
Love,
Lisa Michelle xo
My So-Called Yoga Life 
14 thoughts on “Joy: Finding It Everyday”
Kasia Mikolajczak (@KasiaMikola)
This is a gorgeous and joy filled post. I totally agree with everything you said Lisa. We often forget that we can find joy is so many things. And this will make us happier. Thanks for sharing such a positive post at this holiday time. So we don’t forget why we celebrate after all. Happy Holidays to you and your family!
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Lisa K
Thank you so much Kasia!! Best wishes to your for Christmas too!! xx
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Brooke B
I definitely need to put blinders on in the new year. Great inspiration.
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joniamac
I love this positive post! I really needed to read this as I’ve had a rough month. I will make sure I bring joy into 2018!
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Niki
I love this post! Especially, the part where you say “Joy is the outcome of giving”. Such a strong message and so motivating for xmas donations and gifts/acts of kindness to random people!
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Lisa K
Thanks Nikki! The giving is really what brings the most joy, I think. Best to you and yours!! xx
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hertraveltherapy
This is a very positive and uplifting post, and it sounds like you have learned to recognise and appreciate moments of joy in your life. I often get joy confused with ongoing happiness and assume that to be generally happy I need to be full of joy all of the time, but obviously that’s not how life is and you can’t be “up” all the time.
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Lisa K
So true, though being joyful all the time sounds great, it’s the ups and downs that make it truly sweet.
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Tahnee's Blog
Such beautiful words Lisa! The smiling at people you don’t know is my go to! Like a real proper smile from the heart. The amount of times I’ve watched the other persons face light up with one too is all I need! Xxx
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Lisa K
I enjoy the real smiles very much, and the reactions too!! xx
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Matt
Love this and perfect to reflect at this time of year. I also love that bit about smile at people you don’t know, although they often look back at me like I’m a weirdo, when they smile back, it makes it all worth it! Hope you and your family have a lovely Christmas.
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Lisa K
Thank you so much Matt, best wishes to your beautiful little fam!! xx
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Katchutravels (@Katchutravels)
Lisa this is truly well thought and deep (at the same time simple advice). I have the same thoughts and maybe smiling at the mirror and calming down and focussing on something else can help. Nicely worded and crafted
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Lisa K
Thanks so much!! Yes, sometimes we forget the simple things;)
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