Candy Paull

Harness the Energies of Joy

Joy is the holy fire that keeps our purpose warm and our intelligence aglow. —Helen Keller

Authentic success contains an element of joy. Joy is a natural state, part of the way human beings are created. Think of a baby's gurgle of laughter as she discovers her toes, a child's satisfied smile as he holds up his finger paint masterpiece, or the feeling of intense satisfaction in a job well done. Joyous energy comes naturally and spontaneously when we are younger, but often as adults we lose that access to delight.
Cultivate delight in what you do and open your heart to joy. Instead of focusing on what's missing, look for what is positive in each situation. Tap into the energies of enthusiasm to give your work a jump-start.
When you are facing a difficult task, lighten your load with a joy break; a simple, soothing pleasure that makes you feel good and fortifies you for the task at hand. Instead of wasting energy complaining, give thanks and affirm that you have exactly what you need to complete this task and to move on to more enjoyable and exciting work.

• Take a joy break and spend a half an hour today doing something that gives you great pleasure.

Affirmation: I look for and embrace the joy in life.