JOY
Word of the Week: JOY
Part of Speech: Noun
What Does JOY Mean?
Joy is more than just a fleeting smile or a chuckle at a bad dad joke. It’s that deep, soul-filling, "my-heart-might-burst" feeling you get when life shows you, its magic. It’s the moment you see your child standing tall, independent, and thoughtful realising they’ve grown into someone you’re so proud of. It's also found in the smaller things: belly laughs with a friend, catching the sunrise, or a surprise hug when you need it most.
Joy is contagious. Like ripples from a skipped stone, it spreads—your smile, your kindness, your energy, all creating waves that can brighten someone else’s day.
the little things
How Do You Discover Joy?
Joy doesn’t come in a one-size-fits-all package. For some, it’s giving to others. For others, it’s a walk in the woods or trying something completely new (hello, sushi-making class?). Here are some ways people unearth joy:
Caring for others: Nothing feels better than brightening someone else’s day.
Spiritual connections: Find meaning in something bigger than yourself.
Exploring new horizons: Whether it’s traveling, learning a new skill, or even trying pineapple on pizza (no judgment).
Time in nature: Fresh air, rustling leaves, and maybe an accidental squirrel encounter.
Joy isn’t just a feeling—it’s fuel for your soul. It’s what fills your cup and keeps it from running dry.
How to Cultivate More Joy
Here are some tried-and-true tips for keeping your joy-meter high:
Control: Don’t waste energy fretting about things you can’t change—like the weather, traffic, or that aunt who always has a comment about your life choices. Focus on what you can improve.
Appreciation: Start a gratitude list. Write down one thing a day that makes you smile—even if it’s just your coffee being the perfect temperature.
Find the good: Whether it’s in people or situations, look for the silver lining. Misunderstandings and grudges are joy-killers.
Build: Relationships, habits, or even LEGO sets—watching something grow from nothing is immensely satisfying.
Overlook: Let the little annoyances go. Your partner’s socks on the floor again? Pick them up with a smile—or at least a sarcastic grin.
Celebrate: Don’t save the fancy dishes for “special occasions.” Life is the occasion. Break out those crystal glasses for Tuesday’s spaghetti night!
Surround yourself with beauty: Fill your space with things that make you happy—whether it’s fresh flowers, homemade crafts, or those glitter macaroni creations your kids made.
Animals: Your fur-babies are walking, wagging bundles of joy. Give them a cuddle and soak up their unconditional love.
Nature: Go outside. Feel the sun on your skin, the breeze in your hair, or the crunch of leaves underfoot. Bonus points if you resist scrolling while you’re at it.
Move your body: Whether it’s yoga, a dance class, or chasing after your toddler, moving your body boosts those feel-good vibes.
Rest: Prioritize sleep. Joy is much harder to find when you’re running on fumes.
Treat Yourself: Sometimes, joy is as simple as a new pair of shoes or a bubble bath.
Hobbies: Nothing beats the sense of accomplishment after completing a project—whether it’s a painting, a garden, or that jigsaw puzzle with 10,000 pieces.
Final Thought
Joy isn’t about those big fireworks moments; it’s the steady, glowing ember that keeps us warm in life’s chillier moments. Unlike fleeting happiness, joy lasts. It’s in the little things—the moments that make you pause, breathe, and think, Wow, this is good.
So, what’s a moment that brings you joy? Share it, spread it, and let the ripple effect begin!