Joy - How to Find It, Why You Want To


by IntenseExperiences.com

Joy ... does it really need to be defined? Probably not, but just in case:

“Joy is the intense moments – the moments of success, the moments of connection, the moments of really appreciating beauty and saying, ‘Oh wow, I’m so lucky to be alive!’" according to Ned Hallowell, MD and author of The Childhood Roots of Adult Happiness.

Whatever form the joy comes in, everyone knows, WE WANT MORE OF IT!

One of the most important facts to remember is this: 40% of our happiness is influenced by what we do deliberately to make ourselves happy.

Some Key Ways to Increase Joy

Trying to come from a ‘good place’ all the time is not quite enough to bring you the necessary joy that’s needed to bring happiness.

Here are some things you can do on a daily basis to always be full of joy:

  • Look for What is Right
  • Be an optimist, not a pessimist. Those that look at the brighter side of things are more apt to experience joy more often.

  • Be Grateful
  • Studies have continually verified that those people who keep ‘gratitude journals’ showed higher levels of optimism, enthusiasm, and energy and feel better as a whole.

  • Remember the Amazing Benefits of Play
  • It’s easy to see joy in children, and for many adults their capacity to experience real joy and enthusiasm about life holds its roots in how they did things as a child. Always remember to be a kid once in awhile. Set aside all embarrassment and enjoy in some childhood pleasures through play.

  • Be Kind
  • Random acts of kindness and heroism increase the desire to perform good deeds. Kindness is contagious. Kindness makes others experience joy.

  • Spend Time with Friends
  • Happiness is enhanced by a rich social and romantic life. It is important to have supportive relationships with friends, family and lovers.

  • Rest
  • People who take the time to enjoy peace, quiet, and solitude have an increase in experiencing joy and happiness.

A Few Specific Facts about Joy
(in case you still need convincing!)

> People who experience joy have more friends and better marriages

> Joyful individuals are more creative and achieve greater success in their work

> Those who make joy a priority in life live longer

> Studies have shown that positive emotions can make the immune system stronger