Commentary by Sally Brown Bassett, Ph.D.
One of the greatest compliments I remember ever getting was from my former boss and founder of ATA Airlines, George Mikelsons. He said I viewed life like a glass that wasn’t half full or half empty, it was overflowing. I contribute that to always having a Joy List. Here are ten tips that will help bring more joy into your life.
- Start your own Joy List. Write down 20 things that bring you joy. Don’t over think it. Just write down things that immediately come to your mind, such as soaking in a hot bath with a glass of wine, watching a good movie, reading a novel, eating chocolate, walking in the woods, getting a massage, hanging out with your best friend, etc.
- Review your Joy List and put an Xby those items that you do not do on a regular basis. Put a check mark by those things you do frequently and see which adds up more. Are you doing the little things in life that bring you joy? Try to do something on your list every day or at least once a week.
- Trust in the following quote: “Live Simply. Laugh Often. Love Much.”
- Take a yoga class. It will get your endorphins going and bring you calmness.
- Smile and say hello to strangers
- Sit with your pet(s). For me, my pets include a 31-inch mini Palomino horse and a five-pound Yorkie dog. That is joy.
- Do something that you have always wanted to do.
- Buy an aromatherapy oil, such as lavender, jasmine, rose or sandalwood that you intuitively choose by sniffing them and seeing which oil attracts you. Use in your bath or for a massage.
- Sit by a body of water with the intention of just “being.”
- Find delight in everything! Remember, your glass is overflowing.
Until next time…
Namaste!