Because what I’ve found through my work is that often, the biggest thing standing in the way of our most joyful lives is ourselves. In a world that is filled with so many terrible injustices, deciding to prioritize our own joy can sometimes feel a little bit selfish. We can convince ourselves that it’s not that important in the grand scheme of things, or that we aren’t worthy of living a joyful life. But the truth is, joy is powerful, and we all deserve more of it.
Why is it so important? Well
Studies show that joyful people have less chance of having a heart attack, maintain a healthier blood pressure, and tend to have lower cholesterol levels. There’s research to prove that joy boosts our immune systems, fights stress and pain, and improves our chance of living a longer life. Being joyful could quite literally add years to life - don’t you just think that’s the most awesome thing ever?!
Add to that the fact that joyful people tend to be more patient, kind and creative than their peers. Studies have shown that they’re also more likely to have healthy, meaningful relationships that last. Given the current state of affairs, more kindness, patience and joy all sounds pretty good, no?
Lots of people tell me that they know joy is important, but that right now, they’re too busy focusing on their careers to priorities it. I get that idea, I really do, but what if I told you that the research shows that joyful people are 40% more likely to receive a promotion at work? The science shows that our brains work significantly better when they are in a positive state, as opposed to a negative, neutral or stressed state, and so prioritizing your joy could be the magic ingredient for your career success.
All we have is right now
Finally, we get one short and precious life here on planet earth. None of us are guaranteed anything more than we have right here and now. We aren’t guaranteed better jobs or bigger houses or perfect health. And so if we can’t have control over all of our external circumstances, aren’t we better focusing on finding our joy right now?
Regardless of what is going on around you, you can feel happier, be productive, attract success and enjoy yourself during the process. When you shift your focus and the way you think, your perspective changes. When shift happens, your life changes. So get your shift together.