Choosing Joy: A Guide to Slow Living and Rest
I used to think that the things I did – the fancy jobs, the perfect pictures online – were what made me important. But now I know that it’s the people we touch and the love we share that truly matters. It’s the small acts of kindness, the laughter, and the real connections we make that leave a lasting mark.
Joy is a Choice
Joy isn’t something that just shows up. It’s a choice we make every day. There was a time when I was just going through the motions, not really living. But when I started paying attention to the little joys – like a warm cup of tea on a rainy day or a good chat with a friend – that’s when I started to feel truly alive again.
It’s the same with feeling happy and thankful. These aren’t just feelings that come and go, they’re ways of being that we can choose. It all starts with noticing the good things in our lives and making a choice to focus on them.
Embracing Rest and Slow Living
In our busy world, it’s easy to feel bad for taking time to rest. But resting isn’t a luxury; it’s something we need. I’ve learned to enjoy slowing down – taking long walks outside, enjoying home-cooked meals, and just being in the moment. It’s in these quiet times that we find real peace and happiness.
You Can Be Anything, But You Don’t Have to Be Everything
Do you ever feel like you have to do it all – have the perfect job, the perfect body, the perfect life? I know I have. But the truth is, we can be anything we want, but we don’t have to be everything. It’s okay to have limits and to focus on what really matters to us. What are the things that really matter to you?
Your Story is Unique
Maybe you feel like you’re not as “far along” as others your age. Maybe you got sick, or you needed time to heal and figure things out. Maybe you chose to travel instead of saving money. But remember, everyone’s journey is different. The choices you’ve made, the things you’ve learned – they’ve all led you to where you are today. And that’s exactly where you’re meant to be.
Creating the Life You Want
It’s easy to compare ourselves to others and think their lives look better. But remember, things aren’t always what they seem. Some people are just better at showing off the good parts and hiding the rest. What really matters is how you feel inside. Are you living a life that feels good to you?
If not, maybe it’s because you’re trying to live a life that you think you should want, instead of the life you truly desire. Take some time to think about what would really make you happy. Is it what you actually want, or is it what you think you should want? Once you figure that out, creating the life you want becomes so much easier.
Giving Yourself Permission to Be Happy
Most of us wait for something to happen – a promotion, a new relationship, a big achievement – before we allow ourselves to be happy. But what if we could just choose to be happy right now? What if we didn’t need permission from anyone or anything else? When we give ourselves permission to be happy, it can’t be taken away from us.
Finding Your Passion
Make sure you’re not just chasing after achievements to impress others. Make sure you actually enjoy what you’re doing. Maybe you’re jealous of something someone else has, not because you don’t have it, but because you haven’t given yourself permission to go after it.
Your Work Doesn’t Define You
Remember, your job is just a part of your life, not your whole life. It’s something you do to support your life, not the only thing that gives you joy. So find things outside of work that make you happy. Spend time with loved ones, pursue hobbies, take care of yourself. Your life is so much more than your work.
