Joy Journal Vol. 2

"What makes you happy?" 😳 Whooo, this question is complicated. It either stops my clients in their tracks or opens a can of worms. 
 
Today, I want to share some insights from “Joyful: the surprising power of ordinary things to create extraordinary happiness" by Ingrid Fetell Lee. She states:
 
“Our culture is obsessed with the pursuit of happiness, but in the process, we kind of overlook joy. We pursue the things we think will make us happy, but in the process we often find ourselves too busy or exhausted to experience or appreciate joy. Yet joy is a lot more immediate and accessible than happiness. And ironically, it may actually be one of the most powerful routes to happiness. So rather than chasing after happiness, maybe what we should be doing is focusing on joy instead…”
 

Joy is different than happiness. Happiness is something that measures how good we feel over time. But joy is about feeling good right now, in the moment.

So in my workshops and private sessions, I flip the happiness question and ask:  “What brings you joy?” This does the trick! I receive beautiful answers such as: A walk in the sunshine. Playing with my dog. Spontaneous lunch with a friend. $4.99 flowers from Trader Joe's. The smell of lavender. Exploring new coffee shops. Listening to a favorite playlist. A yummy dish. A great haircut. Etc. Etc…because true joy lives in moments, it’s a lot simpler and easier to find than happiness. 

  • Shopping for School Supplies This is the first year I am doing this ritual WITH my kids! My oldest starts Kindergarten on Monday! 🥲 I vividly remember shopping for school supplies as a child & being overwhelmed with excitement (this was a nod from the universe of things to come! 😅) P.S. Everything is on sale for back to school, so double the joy! I love stocking the studio up during this time and I also stash some away for fun artsy birthday presents or goody bags.
  • Witnessing Couples Tap into Play I had so much fun combining my love for play, adventure & mystery with my couples play date excursion! I helped Brittnee & Wesley celebrate their 7th wedding anniversary as their personal “tour guide” with clues, art activities, and pit stops at places they love. Now can someone please plan one for me & Ben?!? Lol 😂
  • Learning New Skills I participated in the Plein Air Club this month and it was incredible! A free monthly gathering facilitated by the wildly talented oil painter and printmaker Madison Cowan! Highly recommend trying something new and checking it out! I just brought my sketchbook and pens. Fancy art supplies aren't necessary! Creating outside is good for the soul!

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