 | | | | About the Author Kennedy Kincaid is our Talent Training Manager. Prior to joining Great Kids as a Trainer in 2022, she worked as a home visitor using the Growing Great Kids Curriculum. Outside of work, she enjoys visiting local shops, playing board games, and baking! |
As we strive for a fulfilling life, we might catch ourselves chasing grand achievements and monumental experiences, believing they are the keys to true happiness. Many of us have shared these sentiments, even comparing ourselves to others on social media.
“If only I had ___, I would be so ___.”
Where True Joy Comes From
However, insights from research and thought leaders like Brené Brown remind us that true joy often comes from embracing the small, everyday moments.
“Joy comes to us in moments — ordinary moments. We risk missing out on joy when we get too busy chasing the extraordinary.”1
This holds profound truth. These words prompt us to pause and reflect on our lives, recognizing that our everyday interactions and simple pleasures make life meaningful.
How Joy Impacts Our Mental Health
Research suggests these joyful experiences can positively impact our well-being and mental health.2 When I notice that I am caught up in the busyness of life and start feeling overwhelmed, I try to slow down and spend some time talking to a friend. By savoring these moments, we enhance our happiness and strengthen our relationships.2
Sharing joyful experiences can rewire the brains of those who have experienced trauma.3 Understanding the healing power of these interactions has shifted my perspective. I now see them as essential times to seek out, pause, and be present in the moment while pursuing larger goals and ambitions.
Being Intentional With Finding Joy
As you go about your days, take a moment to slow down, be present, and find joy in the simple things.
Focus on moments such as:
- A shared laugh
- A quiet moment of reflection
- Smelling a cup of tea
These moments have the power to bring us true joy and enrich our lives in ways we never imagined.
How do you create joyful environments for yourself or others around you?
Great Kids Curricula Supports Joy
Great Kids is an international leader in childhood development. Our curricula products include activities and conversations that spark joy.
Our Growing Great Families Next Generation family-strengthening curriculum empowers you with the tools and training to support families in building secure attachments and reaching their full potential.
The parent education curriculum is based on science and equips you to:
- Support families to grow their resilience
- Have strengths-based conversations
- Enhance family functioning and build protective factors
Learn more about the Growing Great Families curriculum and schedule a connection with our Success Consultants to see if Great Kids fits your program needs.
References:
1. Brown, B. (2012). Daring greatly: How the courage to be vulnerable transforms the way we live, Love, parent, and lead. Baker & Taylor.
2. Savage, B. M., Lujan, H. L., Thipparthi, R. R., & DiCarlo, S. E. (2017). Humor, laughter, learning, and Health! A Brief Review. Advances in Physiology Education, 41(3), 341–347. https://doi.org/10.1152/advan.00030.2017
3. Goleman, D. (2006). Social Intelligence: The new science of human relationships. Bantam Books.
