Dear Spiritual Sister,
Is joyful living part of your everyday life? I truly hope so! If not, it’s time we rethink what is stopping you. If you are not radiating the joy of the Lord in your everyday life, then what are you radiating?
As women, we have several roles. We are career professionals, businesswomen, mothers, grandmothers, sisters, daughters, friends, community volunteers, and leaders. We encounter many people who can positively influence our community. However, we can only do this if we are living purposeful, joyful lives that align with the will of God.
We can strongly influence others, for better or worse, by the things we say and do. Therefore, we need to show up as our best selves for those God has placed in our paths. Even strangers can be uplifted by the joy we reflect in a light conversation or a pleasant smile. Take a look at these 7 practical tips for joyful living that you can start today!
# 1 Make Time for God
Yes, this is number 1 on the list, Sis. You must set aside meaningful time to commune with the Lord. Be sure you consult him about everything. Dig deeper about what may be troubling you and stealing your joy. Make sure you listen to his voice and instructions. Lay your burdens and stressors at the feet of Jesus, and do not pick them back up. Also, find time to study God’s holy word based on your current painpoint.
#2 Start A Gratitude Journal
While you may have previously heard about starting a gratitude journal, it is a small, yet powerful way to be a more joyful person.
When my mother passed away in 2020, it was difficult for me to practice a habit of joyful living. I felt like I was simply surviving. Grief can certainly take a lot out of you. One of the things my father gave me was a gratitude journal. Believe it or not, as simple as it was, it made me reflect on gratefulness for even the little things. Joyful living is about perspective, and while it took me some time to heal from the loss of my mother, having a gratitude journal eased that hurt.
Additionally, gratitude journals are great if you find yourself in a workplace that has low morale and an overall negative culture. Being surrounded by negativity can drain you. A gratitude journal is a great way to make sure you stay in your joyful, kingdom bubble.
#3 Confide in Someone You Trust
Sometimes, we can be in a pruning season, which can distract us from joyful living. It is okay to talk to someone who you can trust about your current situation. This person may be your spouse, a sibling, a parent, a close family member, or a friend. God places people in our lives for a reason. Pray about who you can trust.
If for some reason, you want to explore professional means to assist you, research and pray for God to lead you to a counselor, psychologist, or other mental health professional who can help you with your current season. Christian counselors are also an option if you want someone to help you from a faith-based approach.
#4 Get Out and Have Fun
Sometimes, we get so wrapped up in schedules concerning things we have to do, which can take the fun out of life. However, you must intentionally plan for fun activities. There is so much you can do!
Plan a night out with your spouse, a lunch date with your best friend, attend a social event, or take the kiddos out for ice cream! The smallest events make the biggest impact. You can also go to Dave & Buster’s and have at it! Play, laugh, eat, and have a good time.
You can do anything from planning a weeklong vacation to hanging out with your book club! If you do not want to go out, family game nights are a big hit. My husband and I love competing with our kids in video games. No matter what you decide, having fun is especially important for people who work from home or realize they have been isolated for too long.
#4 Indulge in a Good Movie, TV Series, or Book
Oftentimes, we need a positive distraction from everyday life. Find a new movie or TV series to stream on your TV. Additionally, you can plan a movie date at a local theatre with your family.
My daughter and I love going to the local library and checking out books. When I need a good escape, I choose fiction over non-fiction. Reading a good story is a great way to relax and escape the pressures of life you may be feeling.
#5 Make Time for Wellness Activities & Get Moving
If you haven’t felt joyful lately, be sure to consider a holistic approach. Think about your eating habits and incorporate foods that are nutritious and provide energy. Recall your last wellness visit and key exams with doctors. Schedule appointments if you are overdue and stick to showing up!
Next, exercise is one of the best things you can do to uplift yourself. When you exercise, you reduce stress and make room to feel energized. We do not need to go over all the physical and mental health benefits of exercise, because I am sure you know them. However, if you do not exercise regularly, you should start! A 20-minute walk in the morning will change the mood of the entire day!
Finally, get enough sleep at night and rest during the day if you can squeeze in a cat nap. Adults do not realize how much they are sleep-deprived until they rest well over a few days. You will feel like a brand new person and be ready to conquer the world!
#6 Pick Up a New Hobby
Hobbies are great outlets and bring so much joy. Start your garden, write your book, try that new recipe, make room for those arts and crafts you have wanted to try, buy a new puzzle, or join the organization you have yet to join. Hobbies are a great way to add joy and purpose.
I have found joy in things like reading, playing chess, cooking new recipes, and making puzzles. I also, create content that I love by writing books, making a podcast, and giving myself a new challenge. Stretch yourself and do something different, something fresh.
#7 Hold Yourself Accountable & Find Others Who Will
Yes! Hold yourself accountable for joyful living. If you expect joy to come but are not willing to commune with God and take action, you simply will not walk in the fullness of joy. Unfortunately, you would be choosing the opposite, which would be to remain in your current state. Therefore, make strides toward more joyful living.
I have to admit, I have gone through seasons when I was not as joyful. As a person who is typically smiling and willing to have a light-hearted conversation with a stranger, I have had times when I was not in the best space. As I get older, I reflect more and “catch” myself when I am having an off day or off week. My husband and children are quick to point out that I am a little “different” as well as my closest friends. They do not mind “checking” me at all!
Well, I hope you find these strategies to be simple, yet impactful. Which ones resonated with you the most? Why? Until next time, have fun with joyful living!
With Love,
Val
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