Do you overthink your way out of joy?
This is an odd question, but consider the following experience.
Once I spent time with one of my young daughters and her friend.
I asked them what makes them happy.
They simultaneously responded, “Food!”
After we all enjoyed a laugh at their first response, I asked, “Why?”
They replied, “It tastes so good.” “It’s enjoyable.” One commented that when she’s hungry, she gets grumpy.
They continued sharing what makes them happy.
They both agreed that nature makes them happy.
I asked again, “Why?”
Their response: “It’s pretty.” “It’s cool.” “It’s enjoyable.” “It’s calming.”
Music was another response.
Once again I pressed, “Why?”
Their response: “It can be entertaining, calming, exciting.” “When I’m depressed I can listen to music and I feel better.”
Eventually they responded that “being with people you love” makes them happy.
I was delighted with their responses and their willingness to share.
These young women understood what makes them happy.
As I kept pressing to know why, I realized they didn’t necessarily know why, but that didn’t matter.
They intuitively knew how to be happy and went about being so.
They had not yet succumbed to overthinking their way out of joy.
How many of us intuitively know what brings us joy, but for various reasons overthink our way out of it?
Maybe responsibilities seem too heavy, or challenges seem to outweigh any hope for happiness. Maybe we don’t feel worthy or deserving.
These young women had their share of challenges, yet they chose to focus on the appreciation and enjoyment of the life they were living.
What an inspiration to me! They knew how to recognize, appreciate and enjoy each moment.
I invite you to do the same,
–recognize,
-acknowledge,
-appreciate and
-enjoy that which brings you joy.
And don’t allow yourself to overthink your way out of joy.
Love,
