Joy is more than just a feeling; it's a mindset and a way of life. This is why the phrase “be joyful” is more accurate than “have joy”. You can't possess or purchase joy – it's an inherent state of being that can seem elusive to those unwilling to shift their mindset.
As Viktor Frankl once quoted, “Happiness must ensue. It cannot be pursued. It is the very pursuit of happiness that thwarts happiness. The more one makes happiness an aim, the more he misses the aim.” Hence, to understand how to cultivate joy in our lives, we can observe the characteristics of joyful people.
Joyful individuals embody their joy, it's not about their material possessions. We can identify them by their positive attitude towards life's challenges. What differentiates genuinely joyful people? It's their particular characteristics or habits. Let's delve into these traits.
Joyful People Embrace Self-Love, Forgiveness, and Acceptance
Joyful people possess a healthy self-esteem, acknowledging their capabilities without any feelings of superiority. They are also aware of their weaknesses and limitations, yet they do not allow these to obstruct their progress or serve as excuses. They are authentic and value their own principles, without the need for validation from others.
Even though they might experience pain, they don't dwell on negative emotions. They allow themselves to heal and practice forgiveness, both towards themselves and others. Forgiveness, indeed, is a strength that brings peace and joy.
Joyful People Welcome Change
Life is a constant flux, and joyful people understand this reality. They don't rely on situations or material things for their happiness. They recognize the temporariness of many life circumstances and are proactive in adapting to changes. Resistance to change only leads to unhappiness.
Joyful People Spread Joy and Laughter
Laughter and smiles are universal symbols of happiness. Joyful people find solace in humor and laughter, using it as a tool to navigate life's challenges. They also derive pleasure in spreading joy to others.
Joyful People Refrain from Jealousy and Envy
Jealousy and envy are joy-killers. Comparing oneself to others often leads to discontentment and unhappiness. Joyful people celebrate the success of others and refrain from harmful comparisons. They understand the uniqueness of every individual and avoid unnecessary comparisons.
Joyful People Practice Gratitude and Honesty
Authentic joy thrives on honesty and integrity. Joyful people are truthful, both to themselves and others, and uphold moral principles even when no one's watching. They understand that lies and secrets only breed worries that hinder happiness.
Gratitude is another key characteristic of joyful people. They concentrate on the positives and express gratitude for them. This gratitude habit is a simple yet powerful tool for cultivating joy.
In conclusion, these are some of the amazing traits of joyful people. Remember, it's never too late to cultivate joy. Start by adopting these habits and let true happiness permeate your life.
