Six Ways To Cultivate Joy

Some of us must choose joy each day. Given the state of the world, it may feel challenging to find something to be joyful about, but that isn’t true. There are still so many things in life to find joy in. Today, I want to share Six Ways to Cultivate Joy In A Challenging World.

Develop A Gratitude Practice

Whenever I feel unhappy and like there’s nothing to be joyful about, I write a gratitude list or sometimes reflect on the blessings and people and things that bring joy to my life. This makes me feel better almost immediately.

Harvard Health says, “Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.” Try developing a gratitude practice of your own and use it the next time you feel down.

I’ve noticed that sometimes people can lack joy and feel unmotivated when they don’t have anything to look forward to. Having hobbies and goals to work on gives us something to look forward to doing and achieving. I love writing on my blog, sharing encouragement on my social media, and exercising.

These things genuinely bring me happiness and joy. I'll work on these things whenever I want to cultivate joy or boost my energy and motivation. The next time you lack joy, work on your hobbies and goals, and see if you don’t feel better.

Reframe Negative Thinking

Reframing negative thoughts and cultivating a positive mindset are essential to maintaining a joyful attitude. Negative thoughts and bad moods come, and it’s ok and healthy to feel them, but we don’t have to settle into them. Instead, we can reframe our thoughts and choose joy over a pity party.

Seek Social Connections

I’ve been reading and learning a lot about the positive effects that social connections can have on your mood. A study published by the National Library of Medicine outlines ways to utilize social interactions and connections to promote health and wellness. The study states:

“Social connection is a pillar of lifestyle medicine. Humans are wired to connect, and this connection affects our health. (Source)

I’ve been testing this theory by seeking more social connections. When I’m lonely or sad, I feel better when talking to or hanging out with someone I care about. I usually work from home, which can get very lonely. Finding time in my week to connect with others has improved my feelings during the day.

Look For Ways To Give and Serve

If a situation in the world burdens you, find ways to help by supporting a cause. More than likely, nonprofits, churches, and organizations are already working hard to improve the situation. You can volunteer, give, or serve with one of those organizations. Giving and helping always make me joyful; I bet it does for you, too!

Pray For Joy

Lastly, pray and ask God to help you feel joyful during challenging times. The Bible tells us in James 1:2-4: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

This verse can be difficult to read and understand when you are experiencing challenging times, but I’ve learned to interpret it as a promise from God that He will help you through, make you better, and give you joy during your challenges.

I hope you’ve found this helpful and will begin to cultivate more joy each day.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” - Romans 15:13