Scheduling Joy in our life…………….

The first thing I do after making my morning coffee is grab my phone and look to see what I have scheduled for the day. Am I working today? Do I need to clean the house and do some laundry? Perhaps I need to go food shopping or stop at the bank? As I do a mental run-through of my day, I tend to overlook remembering to schedule something that gives me joy. 

Just like a doctor’s appointment or having to run to the bank, scheduling joy in our life is crucial for our mental health. So many times we are so busy with life that we push joy and happiness to the side until we have more time. We can do something fun after we do something productive.

Scheduling joy in our life should be a priority. In the hustle-driven culture of our society, making time for yourself is seen as a frivolous choice. However, I think it’s totally the opposite. Without making time to nourish your soul, you won’t have anything to share with others.

Think about what truly brings you joy. Is it something as simple as driving around with a Dunkin in your hand with the music blasting and the windows open? Is it watching trashy tv with your partner or friends? Make a joy list of things that make your spirit happy and be intentional in bringing them into your life. What truly makes your heart smile? Just a few minutes of joy lightens your soul and your day.

Pockets of joy exist everywhere – they exist in the sunset as you get out of your car to walk in the house after work. They exist in your favorite song coming on the radio. They exist in running into an old friend at the grocery store. Open yourself up to receiving and appreciating these pockets of joy.