The holiday season is here, bringing celebrations like Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and others. While many sing “Joy to the World,” not everyone feels joyful. Why is that? And more importantly, how can we change it?
Joy is our natural state. Think about babies—they radiate joy when their basic needs are met. Yet as adults, many of us struggle to reclaim that innate vitality. The world’s pessimism and overwhelming headlines often dampen our spirits. But joy doesn’t have to be elusive, even during challenging times.
The key to mastering joy lies in where we direct our attention. Energy flows where attention goes. By consistently reorienting our focus, we can cultivate joy—not just for the holidays, but every day. Here are three strategies to become a master of joy:
Realize You Always Have a Choice
Our greatest spiritual freedom is the ability to choose the emotional “palette” of our lives. Joy isn’t something we passively receive; it’s something we actively create.
If you want joy, make it your priority. Adjust your thoughts and actions until joy becomes the default setting of your day. It won’t happen overnight—it requires repetition and commitment—but with practice, your emotional sky can brighten.
Release Resentful Thoughts
To experience joy, let go of resentment. Carrying grudges is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer. In fact, science backs this up: studies show that reducing resentful thoughts significantly lowers depression.
When you stop harboring grudges, you don’t just free others—you free yourself. This holiday season, refuse to let negative judgments rob you of your peace. Remember, letting go isn’t about others; it’s about reclaiming your joy.
Rejoice in Others’ Good Fortune
We are all interconnected, so celebrating someone else’s success uplifts us, too. Whatever you want in life—whether it’s love, success, or abundance—celebrate it when others achieve it.
This principle becomes even more powerful when applied to people you don’t like. If you’re at odds with someone, wish for them what you desire for yourself. This not only releases negativity but also aligns you with a universal truth: joy grows when shared.
A Season—and a Life—of Joy
So, to master joy during the holidays and beyond:
Choose joy by directing your attention wisely.
Let go of resentment—it only harms you.
Celebrate others’ good fortune to attract more joy into your life.
By making these strategies a way of life, you’ll not only grow in wisdom but also master the art of joy. This holiday season, let your life sing with the same vitality and exuberance as “Joy to the World.”
Peace and Blessings,
James
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