It’s time to start looking for Joy Triggers. Given what’s happening in today’s world I am starting to feel like I am surrounded by negativity and doom and gloom. Murder Hornets, that other thing that shall remain nameless. Masks, social distancing. Things I never thought we’d be dealing with in 2020. It is so easy to fall into a pattern of negativity.It is so so easy to slip into a pattern of pessimism. It’s like falling down a rabbit hole you can never get out. The first few days of quarantine I felt ok. As the days went on however, things became increasingly hard. I started to notice a trend on social media. Illness, social isolation, loneliness and an all around bad vibe. It felt like I was being swallowed up by a dark cloud.
Enter joy triggers.
Ariana Huffington, Founder and CEO of Thrive Global spoke about this in an interview. "It’s not enough to be productive, it’s not enough to be successful, I need my joy triggers. Joy triggers are not rational. Bring them into your daily life, because I really believe that ... it’s all a part of how we can bring balance into our life... getting joy from simple (but beautiful) things — scents and sights and tastes."
Joy triggers are the tiny things in life that bring you joy. The scent that reminds you of your favorite relative. The rainbow you see after a storm. Watching your kids run after bubbles squealing with happiness. Petting a dog. Quick chat with a friend online. That first sip of coffee in the morning. Recently in an effort to have some normalcy I started taking a daily walk. As I was out walking I noticed lots of chalk drawings. It always made me smile. 
Some of the most amazing chalk arts I saw
Some of the most amazing chalk arts I sawBeing more mindful of these joy triggers is key. Being present in the moment. I highly suggest having a journal or note in your phone titled joy triggers. Write these things down or type them in your notepad as they happen. Reflect upon them when you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious. In a perfect world your joy triggers would be something that is simple to do and easily replicate-able. What I mean is that when you are feeling down, sad, or anxious you can quickly reflect back to those triggers and hopefully it will help you continue on your day in a more joyful and peaceful way.
What are a few of your joy triggers? Remember that "quick chat with an online friend" I mentioned above. I have a place where you can chat with other moms. Some of my best friends I have only met "online" and they spark the biggest Joy trigger ever. I'd love to have you join us here.
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