Tips To Keep Your Joy - Conclusion

In our conclusion to this series on keeping your joy we're discussing tip #6 & #7, the importance of forgiveness and maintaining a positive self image. Both are closely tied to the amount of joy and fulfillment that you have in your life.

#6 Don't Hold Grudges

Be willing to let go of old hurts, bitterness or unforgiveness toward anyone in your life. Holding on to negative emotions becomes emotionally and physically toxic overtime. Sometimes we feel that holding on to bitterness gives proof that what was said or done to us was wrong. Or many people felt that they were punishing the person that hurt them by remaining bitter toward them. However, the person that ends up hurting the most is the one that refuses to forgive and move on. Don't allow yourself to be held "hostage" in your past. Learn to let go, to trust again, to love again and to live again. Be sure that you focus on changing yourself instead of waiting for the other person to change. And don't set unrealistic expectations for others so you don't continue to set yourself up for disappointment. Always expect the best and believe the best about others, but be willing to be flexible and forgiving if they don't live up to all of your expectations. Practice forgiveness on a daily basis. You will find that you enjoy your life and maintain your joy as never before.

#7 Pay Attention To Your Self Talk

Pay attention to the kinds of thoughts and feelings that you have about yourself during the day. Are you thinking positive, self affirming thoughts? Examples of self defeating thoughts are statements like, "I may never make it in life", "I should give up", "I'm not all that smart or talented", "nothing good ever happens for me". Really take time to examine what you are saying about yourself in your quiet time. You may be surprised that there are adjustments that need to be made. If you are going to gain and keep joy in your life. You will have to have a good self image. If your self image needs improving there are many ways you can accomplish this. Spend time in prayer and finding out what the Bible has to say about who you are and what you can achieve. Also take some time at the beginning of each day to make statements of faith about your life and what you are believing for. Everyday you should get up and declare that "this will be the best day of my life and that something good is going to happen today." As you do this you will begin reprogramming your "self talk" and creating new positive thought patterns.

Make today the best day of your life!

Junice LaGreen-Rockman of Murfreesboro, TN writes about spiritual and
motivational issues. Follow her column every Friday in the DNJ and
check out her blog at http://jrockmotivates.blogspot.com/ Email:jrockmotivates@gmail.com