6. Am I Good Medicine for My Family: Do I Pass the Joy Test?

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In this episode we discusses how to be good medicine for our families by fostering joy in our own lives.  Nikki emphasizes the difference between joy and happiness, stating that joy is an attitude that exists separate from circumstances. She highlights the importance of choosing joy and modeling it for the family. Nikki gives a  list of questions that we ca ask ourselves to assess our default state of mind and mindset throughout the day. She then provides five things that can help foster joy, including having realistic expectations, taking time to connect, avoiding multitasking, practicing self-care, and cultivating gratitude. The episode concludes with a challenge to be a dose of good medicine to loved ones and others.

Proverbs 17:22 - “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.”


THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN JOY AND HAPPINESS:

What is joy? What is happiness? And what is the difference between joy and happiness?

The difference between joy and happiness lives in the mind and heart.

• Joy is a little word. Happiness is a bigger word.
• Joy is in the heart. Happiness is on the face.
• Joy is of the soul. Happiness is of the moment.
• Joy transcends. Happiness reacts.
• Joy embraces peace and contentment, waiting to be discovered.
• Joy runs deep and overflows, while happiness hugs hello.
• Joy is a practice and a behavior. It’s deliberate and intentional. Happiness comes and goes blithely along its way.
• Joy is profound and Scriptural. "Don't worry, rejoice." Happiness is a balm. "Don't worry, be happy."
• Joy is an inner feeling. Happiness is an outward expression.
• Joy endures hardship and trials and connects with meaning and purpose.
• A person pursues happiness but chooses joy.

Taken from: https://www.compassion.com/sponsor_a_child/difference-between-joy-and-happiness.htm

"THE JOY TEST" - QUESTIONS TO ASK OURSELVES: 
What’s our default state of mind?
When our feet hit the ground in the morning, what’s our disposition? 
What’s our mindset?
Are we focusing and commenting on the good? 
Are we operating from a grateful heart?
Are we smiling? Are we laughing?  Are we pleasant to be around?
 Are we looking for moments of joy?

Questions by Michelle Grossner @ https://michellegrosser.com/#/

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