December is a month of challenges, so it is hard to remember to choose joy during those times. I lost my mother a couple of months back and circumstances connected to her passing made my relationship with my siblings even more strained. Then there are the regular stresses in December like the holidays, bad weather, family expectations and our own, seasonal illnesses, and money woes are just a few that can have a negative impact on our emotional and physical well-being. These situations will need to be faced if and when they occur. But we shouldn’t stay stuck in those “down feelings”.
“Joy doesn’t simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.” ~ Nenri Houqwn
Most likely we will have to face difficult situations but we can find joy…if we make a conscious choice to do so. Here are some tips on what to do to shift your focus away from those uncomfortable situations. Try one or all. Be open minded and soon choosing joy will work its magic on your mood.
- Helping others or volunteering to make other people’s lives better can generate your joy.
- Making an effort to build positive emotions. Each time you are successful, you lower your stress and you build resilience for any tough times ahead.
- Create activities or join others in functions that could make you laugh or smile. Even in difficult times, you need to give yourself permission to experience joy.
- Practice gratitude to change your perspective. Start by noticing the little things around you that you might take for granted.
- Take time each day to do something that nurtures you, bit it a hobby, a soak in the tub, a nature walk, a call to a friend, or read a book you can’t put down.
