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As caregivers, we make assumptions and let our negative thoughts tell us that we have to be a martyr or stop enjoying life.  We convince ourselves that we have to give up happiness and joy.  Life is now full of sadness, challenges and difficulties.   Some of that is true and the good news is: joy is possible, even in your caregiver season.  It’s also one of the most important mindsets and practices you need right now.  

• Joy makes you resilient.  
• Joy makes us resistant. 
• Joy makes you healthy

What's the difference between happy and joy?  People favor happiness.  But should happiness be our priority over joy?  I don’t think so.  Happiness is a fleeting emotion based on external circumstances.  But, If you’re laughing with friends, you have both happiness and joy.  Versus joy is an internal positivity that’s connected to hope. It’s the feeling that everything will turn out okay.  With joy, you don’t have to put on a happy face.  You can be joyful in the midst of the toughest situations.  

You and I don’t live in a happy world right now.  Our world is filled with sadness, difficulties, and challenges.   With joy as your priority, the hope that things will be ok, this season will not be forever and right now you are providing a beautiful gift to your loved one - will help you push to your best self.  

Joy is what you need now more than ever.

Experiencing joy while caregiving isn’t always easy, but I believe it’s more than just a nice thing to do: It’s a crucial to your well-being.  Every moment of joy fills your cup a bit so you can keep going. And a little bit of fun can go a long way to relieve stress, motivate, activate and connect — as well as relieve boredom.

During this season in your life, at times it may feel as if you’re in auto pilot as you move through your day to day responsibilities of caring for a loved one. It may feel as if you have forgotten what makes your heart sing with joy. And you may even suppress it out of guilt or resentment. Infusing joy and laughter back into your life will help you better deal with the stress of being a caregiver. Laughter specifically strengthens your immune system and releases certain 'feel good” endorphins.

Cathy's tips to finding joy   (Screen print this and share on your social media and tag me @cathylynnvan telling me what sparks your joy. ) 

• Create a joyful journal.  
• Write a joyful mantra to post on your computer or refrigerator to say each morning. 
• Celebrate. Find ways to celebrate. 
• Eat joyously. 
• Exercise always boosts your mood.  
• Surround yourself with happy, vibrant friends and family
• Be joyous around your loved one. 
• Cultivate gratitude. 
• Enjoy music, movies, and/or a sporting event
• Enjoy a hobby.
• Children, Grandchildren, Pets
• Find joy with your loved one too

Notice your  little moments of joy in every day. Make an effort to be mindful of the joy that you might be missing when your mind is racing and your challenges are overwhelming.  Being creative and open to the humorous, joyful moments will help you face the tougher aspects of caregiving.

Let yourself explore joy as a caregiver.   Your joy matters!

Did you hear my exciting news coming soon.        I’m starting The Caregiver Cup Circle which is a small intimate group which meets two times a month via Zoom for 3 months.   I’m limiting the group size to 10 ladiesSo if you are feeling lonely, this group may be just what you need.   If interested email me at [email protected] or DM me @cathylynnvan

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