How do you approach each day? Is it seen as a unique 24-hour gift, or just another repetition of the day before? It’s all too easy to fall into a daily routine and overlook those special moments, even on the toughest days. Surprisingly, even in challenging moments, there can be something extraordinary waiting to be noticed.
In my line of work, which revolves around helping people live their dream lives, I’ve learned the importance of gratitude and focusing on what you desire rather than what you lack. However, let’s be honest – frustration, disappointment, and self-doubt can still make unwelcome appearances. That’s precisely why I concentrate on being the best version of myself most of the time, not all the time. My daily rituals keep me in a positive mindset for the most part, and it’s been a lifelong practice that spans many years .
This past weekend, something remarkable happened that transcended mere gratitude—it was pure, unexpected joy. Picture this: a sunny Saturday downtown, with Tony and me offering free hugs. The atmosphere felt lighter, and we received many hugs and smiles. Then, an unhoused man about 50 feet away pulled out bubbles. Yes, you read that right—bubbles! He began waving his bubble wand, and these beautiful giant bubbles suddenly filled the air, floating around us. You could see the people passing by instantly light up, their smiles growing wider, laughter filling the air as they tried to pop the bubbles. It was as if we had all been transported back to our childhood when all it took was bubbles to evoke pure joy. After sharing hugs, I approached the gentleman. I thanked him for the joy he had brought to the corner of Michigan Ave. and Pearson St. I donated to him, I carried that smile with me for the rest of the day, uplifted by the power of hugs and the sheer delight that bubbles brought to me and countless others.
Moving forward, as you go about your day, even if it feels like a repeat of yesterday, I encourage you to be open to and willing to embrace moments of joy by:
Smiling: Even when you’re alone, smile! Smiling releases endorphins and dopamine, and even a forced smile can start to shift your mood. Note: This doesn’t mean suppressing your feelings but instead using a smile as a tool to move forward when you’re ready.
Creating a Joy List: Write down things that bring you joy. For me, bubbles would be at the top of the list. The laughter of babies, genuine smiles, warm hugs, and acts of kindness are some of the other things that bring me immense joy. I’d LOVE to hear what brings joy to your life; feel free to comment and share your list.
Viewing the Day with Childlike Wonder: Try to see your day with the same curiosity and excitement that you had as a child when discovering something new. I’d like you to approach each moment with fresh eyes and an open heart.
Looking for joy: Be open to experiencing joyful encounters, seeing a stranger smile, smiling back, hearing a kind word from a colleague, taking it in, and being a joyful encounter for others through your thoughts, words, and actions.
Ultimately, I wish you to recognize that you are crafting new memories within each moment. Good and bad moments contribute to life’s beautiful and messy tapestry. You’ll bounce back from tough times more swiftly by paying attention to these moments.
Until next time, remember you are a source of joy, so go out there and blow some bubbles. 😊
Affirmation
I am willing to see the joy in each day.
Words to LOVE by
Joy is the net of LOVE in which you can catch souls. – Mother Teresa
The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other’s life. – Richard Bach
The pain of parting is nothing to the joy of meeting again. – Charles Dickens
