Making Joy A Habit
Starting a new blog is like embarking on a thrilling adventure—my pulse quickens, my thoughts overflow, and the possibilities seem endless. As I ponder where to begin, one message rings louder than the rest: inspire. It feels natural, almost instinctive, for me to step into this role, as I’ve always been "the cheerleader"—the one who lifts spirits, sparks joy, and encourages others to embrace their passions wholeheartedly. And so, this blog takes flight with a mission to inspire you to make joy a habit.
The idea of “Making Joy a Habit” first blossomed in 2011, as the title of a workshop I created and taught. At the time, I saw a world where many people seemed to have made misery their default state, and I yearned to help them swap that script for one filled with light, hope, and happiness. Joy, I believe, is born from perspective—the lens through which we view life’s events and circumstances. Here's an example: when you finish grocery shopping, do you see the receipt as a drain on your finances, or do you feel gratitude for the abundance now filling your pantry? It’s a small shift, but one that speaks volumes about your mindset. Your perspective is the key to unlocking joy or succumbing to misery.
Recently, someone dear to me faced a sudden and jarring upheaval in their life. Yet, through acceptance and a commitment to finding the silver lining, what began as a week of inconvenience transformed into a remarkable opportunity—and a better world for them in the end. This experience reinforced something I’ve long believed: an individual’s capacity for joy is directly tied to their capacity for acceptance. Acceptance isn’t about resignation; it’s about embracing life as it unfolds and trusting that everything is as it should be. Resistance, on the other hand, is like locking yourself in a self-constructed cage, keeping you stuck and unable to move forward.
Here's where the magic lies: habits are built on repetition, and cultivating joy is no different. To make joy a habit, you must consistently choose positivity, no matter what external challenges arise. Sure, it’s not always easy—mantras can feel hollow when life throws you curveballs, and you may wonder, “How can I possibly stay positive about losing my job?” But this is where trust and faith come into play. It’s about believing that life always provides us with the experiences we need to grow. When we view setbacks as stepping stones, they transform into opportunities, and when we embrace those opportunities with enthusiasm, we open the door to manifesting something greater.
So, as I wrap up this inaugural blog, I leave you with this heartfelt invitation: dare to Make Joy a Habit. Let it become the foundation of your life, the spark that illuminates your path, and the gift you give to yourself and those around you. Together, we can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, one joyful moment at a time.
Peace,
Kim
