"Any idiot can face a crisis- it's this day-to-day living that wears you out," said the Russian Playwright, Anton Chekhov. Day to day living can wear you out, for many it is filled with the same old routine- the bills, the kids and their homework, the laundry, and the list goes on and on. How to make those days feel less ordinary and more joyful you ask? Well for starters try some of these ideas:
1. Laugh every day. Call a friend and be silly. Laugh at how awful your day is going. Laughing is a known stress reducer!
2. Play hookie. Call in sick and go out and do something soul nourishing. Go climb a mountain. Spend the day with your lover. Go for a walk on the beach.
3. Let it go. All that is bothering you, work through it and release it. Negative thoughts, angry feelings and harbored resentments will not serve you in your quest to be joyful.
4. When things don't go your way or go as planned, change your plans. Be flexible.
5. Surround yourself with people who want to see you succeed.
6. Break routine and have cake for breakfast.
"Intentionally expose yourself to things that you're afraid of. Start telling yourself that the smooth, comfortable life is not something to strive for, but rather a recipe for boredom and stagnation,” suggests West Point Psychologist Michael Matthews.
Passion. Love. Joy. Contentment. Excitement. Fun. Strive for those feelings in your ordinary days.
C'mon join the joy ride. Be a Joy Rider.
Julie McGrath of The Joy Source encourages women to live their lives with passion and joy through her quarterly printed newsletters, Woman's Day of Inspiration and Joy and weekend retreats. You can join the joy ride at http://www.thejoysource.com. Start now, it's never too late!