The Daily Pursuit - How to FIND JOY even in the most hectic days

Today, we’re embarking on a journey to explore one of MY – and according to my Podcast listener numbers & feedback – also one of YOUR favourite topics: the pursuit of happiness. We will dig into what happiness means in our unique lives, and how we can infuse it into our day-to-day routines. So don’t go anywhere! 

Defining Happiness in Our Lives

So, as per usual, let’s define what happiness really means for working parents. It’s not just about grand moments of joy; it’s also found in the small, everyday victories. Happiness is about feeling fulfilled and content, even amidst the chaos.

Personally, I’ve discovered that happiness often resides in the seemingly mundane simple moments – a warm hug from your child, a shared laugh, or a peaceful morning coffee before the day begins. 

What is it for you? How do you define happiness or when do you feel happy?

Based on your feedback on previous episodes mixed in ith what works well for me I want to talk about 2 tools. You might have heard or read about them before. But unless you really give them a good try I believe you won’t know whether they make a difference for you. Spoiler alert: Chances are very high that these tools will improve your happiness levels. 

Mindfulness and the Art of Being Present

One powerful way to amplify our happiness is by embracing mindfulness. This practice teaches us to fully engage with the present moment, savouring every sensation and experience.

Let me introduce an exercise to you so you can easily incorporate it into your busy day. Being more mindful, more present in your day and reminding yourself of your surroundings really takes you out of your head, into the moment. So whether you are out on a walk and lift your head to see the sky, the trees and the beauty around you. Or you’re with your family at home and instead of trying to multitask and getting all frazzled you decide to be present with your kids or your activities. Even just for a few minutes. This can help you find happiness in the now and reduce stress.

Harnessing the Power of Affirmations

Another fantastic tool for cultivating happiness is affirmations. These positive statements can rewire our minds, boosting our self-esteem and outlook on life. Things we affirm to ourselves on a daily basis to raise our happiness. They raise our confidence. They raise our comfort. They raise our courage. They raise our self-esteem, and thus affirmations have the power to also raise our happiness levels. 

The definition of an affirmation is quite simple. It’s just the thought that you repeat to yourself and that makes you more happy. Affirmations really are just those Happy, empowering, encouraging thoughts we repeat to ourselves.

It doesn’t have to be a blunt affirmation like,  I’m happy, I’m happy, I’m happy, or like I’m pretty, I’m pretty, I’m pretty.

It can be something deeper that’s really meaningful for yourself. 

I have set a daily reminder in the evenings – that’s when I’m most exhausted – at 8pm to remind me that I am strong, I am capable and I can do this. It’s simple and it’s a quick glance on my phone and I just repeat it in my head – it just does what it’s supposed to do. It reminds me that I’m strong, I’m capable and I got this. Even when most of the time at that hour I don’t feel like I got this at all. But I’m capable. I am strong. And I got this, even if I don’t feel it right now. 

Every evening I get reminded of that. In my weakest hour. And it’s actually taken the fear away. It’s made the evenings my golden hour again. It’s relaxing my tense nerves.

The Joy of Sharing Happiness

As we wrap up today’s episode, I want to emphasise the power of sharing happiness. When we uplift ourselves, we also have the ability to uplift others.

Here’s your mission: Share this episode with a fellow working mom who could use a dose of happiness in her life. Together, let’s create a ripple effect of joy and empowerment!

Wrap up

Thank you for joining me on this journey to discover happiness. Remember, it’s not about striving for perfection but embracing the beautiful imperfections of life.

Keep finding joy in the little moments, practising mindfulness, and using affirmations to brighten your path.