"In the depth of the winter, I finally realized that within me there lay an invincible summer”—Albert Camus
Finding joy in the moment can be a difficult endeavor. As we travel the road of challenges associated with change, finding joy can be like trying to grab a cloud from the sky or cupping running water in your hands to quench your thirst. We know the clouds and the water exist, but the content and make up of both elements are fleeting, slippery, fluid and unmalleable. The astonishing thing is that both elements are real, not imagined. We can see and experience both. Like water and the clouds, joy exist as well. Even in the darkest moments, we can find joy. During the most difficult moments of our lives, joy is there waiting for the challenged to decide to embrace the joy within reach. In these moments, joy becomes an act of resilience.
Experiencing joy is a choice. The unfortunate story is that typically during difficult times we become enveloped in the fear of what could be loss during the change. The change and transition hurts. We ask the question: "How will this change affect my life?" Fear and uncertainty related to the change may hold us hostage, preventing our ability to see the strength of the human spirit, to believe in the hidden moments of goodness and compassion, and to experience, first hand, our instinctive ability to adapt.
Remarkably, we can find joy during change and trying moments. We can be more resilient. To find joy in the moment, remember to:
Decide that you want to experience joy – it is your choice;
Surround yourself with people who echo joyous moments--individuals who engage in positive thinking and gratefulness. Joy is contagious;
Intentionally look and see the joy in others. Perhaps you may see it in yourself;
Value you and be grateful for you. If you can see the beauty in yourself, you will instinctively look for the beauty in difficult situations;
Know that you have everything you need to get to the other side. You can and will thrive again;
Imagine other times you have gone through difficult times and the lessons you learned during the transition. If you made it through that change, you can make it through this one.
Create a joyful center of excellence in your core by blooming where ever you are planted. Feed your mind with positive experiences and thoughts.
Find joy by reminding yourself that as you're experiencing challenging times that you're also going through a process of purification. Some of your old ways or tendencies will no longer serve you for what is happening and for what is to come. Finding joy is knowing that you are evolving into a stronger and more connected human being;
Live in the present moment and be grateful for the smallest wins and even obstacles. These moments are presented so we can learn about who we are and what we can become.
Although this is not an exhaustive list, the steps serve as a great start for embracing joy as an act of resilience. We all can find joy in the moment, which can lead to resilient behaviors during times of change. So, what are you waiting for? Find Joy in the Moment…