Joy and gratitude are have been thoroughly researched and have recently become hot topics.
Gratitude and joy are more than just a state of mind or a gesture. There are science-based theories behind each of these emotional states of being. Researchers in Positive Psychology find that gratitude, happiness and joy show a strong correlation.
Gratitude moves people to experience more positive emotions, to thoroughly enjoy the good experiences, better their health, face adversity, and develop and maintain relationships of strength, which in turn brings joy.
Joy can increase longevity
Healthy population studies have found that when participants exhibited a positive affect (like joy, happiness, energy, vigor, satisfaction, optimism, and humor) there was a lower mortality rate (Carr, 2011).
So we see being grateful can change our lives. In previous articles we discussed that, “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” Therefore I challenge you the next time you find yourself being negative about something to change the way you look at it. Then take that same thing and find something to be grateful for. Then find another and another.
Joyfulness Tips
To be joyful is to be happy, jubilant and elated. Who doesn’t want more of that in their life! Here I present 14 small things you can adopt into your everyday life that will do just that…bring you joy!
1. Eat Breakfast
Be sure to eat a healthy breakfast.
2. Smile and Be present
Take time to realize the things going on around you.
3. Slow down
Focus on one thing at a time and do it mindfully.
4. Take Breaks
Work for an hour and take a 15-minute break. Move and stretch. This will help your productivity.
5. Write Things Down
You will remember more and be more organized.
6.Listen
Start listening to people. You learn from things said, and from the people saying them.
7.Take Action
Chose something each day that you want to accomplish, and do it!
8.Small Wins
Break down larger goals and projects into small bites and celebrate each step.
9.Be Positive
Keep a positive mindset throughout your day.
10.Limit Worry/Anxiety
Be present in today! Yesterday is gone and tomorrow hasn’t happened. Try box breathing to help with anxiety.
11.Avoid Negativity
Limit the amount of time and energy spent with negative people.
12.Laugh
As you avoid negative people, gravitate towards funny ones. Watch a funny show or movie to get those endorphins pumping.
13.Plan Your Next Day
At the end of your day, sit down and write what you want to accomplish the next day.
14.Sleep
Make sure you get enough sleep. Life becomes easier when you get enough rest.
So, write down what you will be doing tomorrow to bring about joyfulness, get a good night’s sleep, wake up, start adopting these little things into your day and begin to live a happier, more joyful life!
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