We don’t have to look far to find the pain and suffering of this world. And it’s easy to be infected and taken out by this negativity ourselves. But, as we’re social beings, we can allow ourselves to be infected by contagious joy as well.
While it’s true we want to build a fair amount of emotional immunity so that we’re not taken out by the ups and downs of others, we can still be intentional about searching for and surrounding ourselves with those who lift our spirits.
Joy has the power to be contagious. Whenever we see kids playing, lovers loving, or simply someone having a good laugh, for example, it can put a smile on our face and warm our hearts. And even when the happy occasion doesn’t directly involve us, it still feels good to witness.
While occasionally we’re surprised by joy, we often have to put ourselves in the path of this beauty – regularly seeking it out and allowing ourselves to fully receive it.
It’s all too easy to be consumed by our work and the many things not as they should be that we miss the joy that is available.
Fighting for joy might mean we need to curate more moments in which we consume and enjoy the lighter side of life. This is not to become sappy or to put our head in the sand to the harsh realities of life. But it’s not letting the darkness of this world be our only companion either.
And more than merely consuming, we can also spread joy – sharing a smile, surprising a friend, or engaging in random acts of kindness just because.
In the end, joy is contagious – catch and spread more of this blessing today.
Photo by Robert Collins on Unsplash
