7 Ways to Create Joy in Uncertain Times

Joy can be found everywhere if we are looking to find it. It can even be found during uncertain times. I admit the pandemic can at times affect my mood. It can make me feel lost, confused and worried about my future. I have to sit with those emotions. When I can let those emotions go, here is how I make the time to create joy.

 1. Allow yourself to express your emotions.

I’m all about positivity, but even I know life doesn’t always make you feel positive. Sometimes life makes you angry. Sometimes life makes you sad and hurt and defeated. You should know feeling this way is alright. 

Sit with those emotions. You don’t have to run from it. You don’t have to find a way to escape from it. Sit with the disappointment and pain that is welling up inside you. Let those tears fall heavily. Even though this is uncomfortable, I want you to sit with that pain. After, I want you to let it go. Do this as often as you need to, but please, learn to let it go. 

2. Be more present in life.

To be more present is essential in this life. I have to keep reminding myself of this. We fret over our past and worry about our future. Now that a pandemic is upon us, it makes it that much easier to only worry about the future. But I need you to be more in the moment. Be present to witness what you have. Be present to your family. Be present to take up joyful activities at home.

3. Communicate and connect with others.

 To have social connections is necessary for our lives. If we are not proactive about forming bonds, we can easily sink into loneliness. If you’re not staying with your family during the pandemic, make an effort to still keep in touch with your family and friends.

If you are not close with family nor have close friends, make an effort to join online communities that cater to your interests. You need some form of connection. Don’t deny yourself of this.

4. Do one thing each day that makes you happy.

Each day, try to find that one thing that makes you happy and do it. The one thing could be calling up someone you like and talking to them. It could be watching your favorite movie or series. It could be time spent on a hobby or side hustle you care about. Do one thing each day that makes you happy.

5. Protect your space.

The best thing that you can do for yourself at this time is to protect your space. The news is already bleak. You don’t need to add more negativity on top of it. Please be mindful of the conversations you have with others. Do you sense the person you are speaking to is dishonest, manipulative or has ulterior motives? Maybe it’s time to take a step back from this person.

Also, be mindful of who you follow on social media. Don’t engage with people whose energy brings you down. You are always free to mute, unfollow or even block someone. Protect your space.

6. Focus on what you can control.

This is a tip that helps me the most in my life. My ability to focus on what I can control is what keeps me going. I know the pandemic has left many people feeling lost as to their next step. I don’t want you to get lost. I want you to start looking at what is within your power and do that.

7. Keep practicing gratitude.

Lastly, gratitude is always on my happiness list. I’ll tell you it’s never easy, but it must be made a habit. When things are not working out, remind yourself of what you have that makes you feel good in life. Maybe it’s your family and home? Maybe it’s a relationship and good friendship? Maybe it’s your career or having good health? There has to be something. Even if it’s just one thing. Hold onto that joy for dear life and carry on.

How do you create joy during uncertainty?