Six Ways To Cultivate Joy In A Challenging World

Some of us must choose joy each day. Given the state of the world, it may feel challenging to find something to be joyful about, but that isn’t true. There are still so many things in life in which to find joy.

Today, I want to share Six Ways To Cultivate Joy In A Challenging World.

Develop A Gratitude Practice

Whenever I feel unhappy and like there’s nothing to be joyful about. I write a gratitude list, or sometimes I think about my blessings and the people and things that bring joy to my life. This makes me feel better almost immediately. Harvard Health says, “Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.” Try developing a gratitude practice of your own and use it the next time you feel down.

Work On Hobbies And Goals

I’ve noticed that sometimes people can lack joy and feel unmotivated when they don’t have anything to look forward to. Having hobbies and goals to work on gives us something to look forward to doing and achieving. I love writing on my blog, sharing encouragement on my social media, and exercising. These things make me genuinely happy and bring me joy. I’ll work on these things whenever I want to cultivate joy or boost my energy and motivation. The next time you lack joy, work on your hobbies and goals and see if you don’t feel better.

Reframe Negative Thinking

Reframing negative thoughts and thinking positively is essential to maintaining a joyful attitude. Negative thoughts and bad moods come, and it’s ok and healthy to feel them, but we don’t have to settle into them. Instead, we can reframe our thoughts and choose joy over a pity party.

Seek Social Connections

I’ve been reading and learning a lot about the positive effects that social connections can have on your mood. A study published by the National Library of Medicine lists ways to use social interactions and connections to empower health and wellness. The study states:

“Social connection is a pillar of lifestyle medicine. Humans are wired to connect, and this connection affects our health. From psychological theories to recent research, there is significant evidence that social support and feeling connected can help people maintain a healthy body mass index, control blood sugars, improve cancer survival, decrease cardiovascular mortality, decrease depressive symptoms, mitigate post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, and improve overall mental health.”

I’ve been testing this theory by seeking more social connections. When I’m lonely or sad, I feel better when talking to or hanging out with someone I care about. I usually work from home, which can get very lonely. Finding time in my week to connect with others has improved my feelings during the day.

Look For Ways To Give and Serve

If there is a situation in the world that is burdening you, find ways to help by supporting a cause. There are more than likely non-profits, churches, and organizations already hard at work trying to make things better for that situation. You can volunteer, give, or serve with one of those organizations. Giving and helping always makes me feel joyful; I bet it does for you, too!

Pray For Joy

Lastly, pray and ask God to help you feel joyful during challenging times. The Bible tells us in James 1:2-4: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

This verse is difficult to read and understand when you are experiencing challenging times, but I’ve learned to interpret it as a promise from God that he will help you through, make you better, and give you joy during your challenges.

I hope you’ve found this helpful and will begin to cultivate more joy each day.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13

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About the Author: Ivanna Baron shares her story and experiences to help and encourage others. She offers practical tips and ideas for personal growth, wellness, and faith on her website ivannabaron.com.