Where To Find Joy

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Welcome to another exciting episode of Navigate the Day! Today, we explore the topic of finding joy in our lives, drawing inspiration from the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius. In his words, he reminds us that true joy for human beings lies in engaging in proper human work, which encompasses acts of kindness, self-control, discernment, and contemplation of the natural order. By aligning our actions and attitudes with these principles, we can unlock a deeper sense of joy and fulfillment.

As we delve into the journal prompt, "What kind or selfless things will bring me joy?" we embark on a personal journey of self-reflection. We find ourselves grappling with the concept of selflessness, realizing the importance of striking a balance between taking care of ourselves and being kind to others. Our therapist's advice resonates with us - we are the ones spending our lives with ourselves, so we must be kind to ourselves. However, we also recognize the need to extend kindness and support to others.

Discernment becomes a crucial aspect of our quest for joy. We acknowledge the internal struggle of deciphering our true beliefs from societal expectations. Understanding that this is a common challenge for many, we seek solace in the fact that we are not alone in this journey. We reflect on the difficulty of helping others when we haven't fully helped ourselves, but we acknowledge the importance of taking action instead of dwelling in our thoughts.

Amidst these contemplations, we discover moments of selfless acts that bring us joy. Releasing honeybees from our home and participating in initiatives like No Mow May to support pollinators are examples of simple, kind actions that make us feel good. We realize that selflessness can extend beyond these small gestures and encompass practical acts of kindness toward those close to us. Taking on extra chores or offering a listening ear to our loved ones not only benefits them but also fills us with a sense of fulfillment and joy.

In the pursuit of joy, we acknowledge the complexity of navigating each day. We recognize the uniqueness of every individual, with their own filters, biases, and experiences. Embracing this diversity, we strive to be patient and understanding with others, knowing that they too are on their own journey of self-discovery. By maintaining a clear head and practicing self-control, we become less likely to react impulsively and more capable of considering the feelings of others.

It's important to remember that simply pondering on these thoughts won't bring about change. Action is the key. We commit ourselves to actively practicing kindness, selflessness, and discernment in our daily lives. Through intentional actions, we create a positive ripple effect that touches the lives of those around us.

Join us on this inspiring episode of Navigate the Day as we explore the path to finding joy. Let's embrace the principles of kindness, self-control, discernment, and contemplation of the natural order. Together, we can create a life filled with joy, fulfillment, and meaningful connections with others.

Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!

Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books

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