Have you ever taken time to reflect on the many things in your life you have spent your precious time on and then realize they were not actually adding any joy to your life? If you are honest with yourself, you will be able to think of a few. I certainly can. We tend do things that do not bring us joy—overcommitting, stretching ourselves too thin, and remaining in places where we are not valued. I have had people in my life who have wronged me, and attempt to treat me like nothing ever happened. There is no value of having people in your life that do not value the relationship. They must go.
Below are a few examples of joy stealers:
· We belong to organizations that do not bring us joy—we simply can’t find a way to use
our gifts and talents.
· We spend time in toxic relationships that do not bring us joy—they are draining
interactions.
· Being fearful does not bring us joy—we become stagnant and cannot move ahead.
· Lack of boundaries with time, energy, and emotions do not bring us joy—they strip us of
time, energy, and emotions.
· Looking for approval from others do not bring us joy—we negate our authenticity.
· Ignoring self-care does not bring us joy—we neglect ourselves of care and love.
· Cluttered spaces and chaotic environment do not bring joy—they strip us of peace.
· Procrastination—it leads to nowhere.
· Living in the past—only generates regret and the happiness of today.
I have now reached a point in my life to just let it go. If it does not bring you joy, it must go. What will you lose? Absolutely nothing. You will gain. What will you gain? You will fill your life with peace and joy. Joy is often not found in adding more to your life but in setting down those things that weigh too much. Let it go.
Letting go of those things that do not nourish the spirit is not loss—it is making room for joy to return.
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