There's much in most people's lives to lament--events, people, places that create havoc, worry, harm, and negativity, yet there's much we can do to create joy in our lives too. At any age, there are struggles. I remember way, way back when I had a childhood struggle. My parents noted that the struggle was small on the scale of life events, but I remember thinking at the time that they didn't realize how BIG that struggle was for me at the time. It was a true worry for a very young girl.
Our struggles are relative to our experiences, ages, life events, and more. We can't judge the depth or severity of another person's struggle, but instead have compassion and empathy for the struggles they endure. We can also bring light whenever possible to people's struggles in ways small and great.
As I acknowledge a few struggles in my midst, I'm thinking about how to counter those struggles with joyful activity and events. How can I bring warmth, positivity, and joy to the challenges at play?
Warm, welcoming home
I continually return to the theme of a warm, welcoming home. No matter the size of the space you live, it's possible to brighten up your home with simple acts such as baking something that smells good, organizing, cleaning, a fresh coat of paint, and an at-home celebration or dinner for friends and family. A warm, welcoming home brings you peace and also provides peace for those you love and care about.
The arts
Engaging with arts is another way to bring positivity to your life. Local theater, music, museums, dance, and more arts-related events and endeavor can bring light into your life. If you check the activity schedules of your locale, it's likely you'll find free or low cost events to enjoy at local theaters, museums, libraries, or community centers.
Contributing to the greater good
As I often repeat, Mom told me that when I start feeling sorry for myself, it's time to help someone else. While I don't think you can ignore your own strife, I do believe mom's advice holds merit. When you contribute to positive causes greater than yourself, you not only uplift others, but you uplift yourself too.
Something to look forward to
I love planning ahead because I love having something to research and look forward to. Planning ahead gives you positive endeavors to reach for, save for, and work for. Typically, I plan a vacation several months or one year ahead. As I head for the vacation, I do a lot of research about the location and related activities. I enjoy the research and I enjoy having something to look forward to.
New endeavor
I'm always on the look out for new endeavor. I try a lot of new activities. Many don't last, but some do. It's exciting to try out new groups and activities with an open mind, and it's okay when those activities or groups don't work out. And it's true that some of the new activities and groups do work out and that broadens one's experience of life.
Health
Often our health holds us back from positive endeavor or experiences, and when we focus on good health, we're more likely to be positive people.
The way life unravels in many ways is a mystery, but we can promote positivity via our choices, attitude, and actions. That's what I want to do. Onward.
