Remember when mud squishing between your fingers was joy in the purest form? Or what about riding your bike until you couldn't breathe, playing with dolls all day, or running just because you could? These thoughts immediately bring a smile to our face and a remembrance of life in its simpler times. That's joy - being happy and peaceful for no reason other than you desire to be so.
It has been my determination that, as an adult, it is still the simple things that bring me joy. For me, joy comes from listening to the sound of the rain, playing with kids and watching them have the time of their life, the sound of the tides coming in, and having a good cup of tea while listening to music.
My intention here is to help you determine what brings you joy and to allow you to immediately access the memory or situation to return there.
Focus on the things that you absolutely love about your life. Take uninterrupted time alone to think about and compose your list of items that make you heart sing.
Observe the idiosyncrasies that are uniquely and authentically you. Know thyself. Write your findings down on paper. If you can't think of any, your friends will happily assist you.
Remember to share. Whether you volunteer your time/services, donate items to a charity, or give cash, set an intention to be a giver. This act alone will contribute to making the world a better place. Joy may even be found in the simple task of reducing clutter within your environment. Try it; give away some of your things.
Determine your skills, and make changes in your life to fully utilize those skills. Choose areas that will feed your soul and give you a sense of involvement and fulfillment. You may discover a new career in the process.
Determine your strengths. Take the time to rewind your life and depict areas in which you have shown strength or been complimented on for having strength. We all have strengths. Be sure to list all that come to mind.
State your God-given talents. Only you know what comes easily for you, while others may be challenged in that area. By noting your natural talents, it automatically reveals areas of interest for you.
Question your driving force. Reflect on past experiences or people that moved you to inner peace and joy. Chances are if you were moved by them before, you can and will be moved again.
By totally indulging yourself in the steps above, you will be pleasantly surprised by your findings. Truth is, they have always been there, although covered with the daily routine of living. Give yourself the gift of remembering and recreating the things, places and people that have always brought a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
Joy is always a thought away. Be mindful to have your written notes available for immediate access. Now go out and warm your heart!
Retha Logan has a 20 year history of leadership, training and facilitating with individuals and groups who want to get more out of life by focusing to produce faster results. As President of Refined Living LLC, Retha is a resolution/life coach with a passion for getting to the heart of the matter in personal and professional arenas. Visit her website http://www.refinedliving.org