3 Ways You Can Choose Joy Daily

There is something truly magical about the New Year. I know some people feel really awkward in the five days between Christmas and New Year's Eve, but to me, those five days are the prime time to plan, set goals, and dream about everything you want for the next year to bring. This past Christmas was my last Christmas as a college student, and in this career path I have chosen there is no telling where I may be in the world the next time December 25th rolls around. The day after Christmas, I woke up somewhat early and sat down at my desk in my cozy PJ's. I sat there and I wrote everything I wanted to accomplish in the coming year. I wrote about the kind of jobs I wanted to audition for and (hopefully) book. How many auditions I wanted to go to. I wrote about different health and fitness goals. I even set a new goal to read one book a month! Within all of this dreaming, God was tugging on my heart and brought this special verse across my computer screen.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. -James 1:2-3

Now, I had heard this verse a million and one times, but it was at that moment where it finally hit me. I finally realized that everything that I had been through in this life has made me stronger. The goals I were setting were bigger and better than anything that I had ever dreamed up before, and it was because I had grown from my struggles. I was no longer afraid of failing. The past four years of struggling in friendships, school, transitions, and rejection were finally  baring some sort of fruit. I am stronger now. So much stronger. I have transitioned from writing out my heartaches, to writing out my praises. I have been overcome with so much joy, and I never want it to go away. I began to think of practical ways that could help keep this flame alive in my heart. This lead to new goals and habits that were set for the New Year. For the past few days, they have been working and they’ve completely rocked my world. I thought I would share them with you.

Journal Even if you are someone who doesn’t like to write, just do it. You would be amazed at how clear your mind can feel if you put down the things that makes it so full of clutter. You can do this right before you go to bed, or it can be one of the first things that you do when you wake up. You can be someone who physically writes it all out in a notebook, or you can type it up in the notes app of your phone. Maybe you can just sit in your room and talk to yourself for a little bit. Whatever fits you best, do it. Take the emotions that flood your heart and give them to God. You will be amazed at the weight he can take off of you in such a short amount of time. 

Three Positive Things Every night, it typically takes me about fifteen minutes to fall asleep. I always feel bad praying during this time, because I wake up the next morning and feel the need to apologize to God for falling asleep on Him. Instead, I think of three positive or good things that happened that day. These things don’t always have to be deep or philosophical. They can be silly, simple, and short. One night, I thanked God for my family from Florida arriving to visit with us safely. Another night, I was really thankful for a sandwich that I had for lunch. I guess it was just really yummy. Begin to think of three positive things every night, and I promise you’ll wake up excited to find three more things. Sooner or later, you’ll be finding more than three. It’s awesome.

Sticky Notes I love sticky notes. Seriously. Whoever invented them is my hero. I have found that whenever I find a beautiful Bible verse, cute quote on Pinterest, or an encouraging thought is placed on my heart, I write it down and stick it on my wall, mirror, laptop, or desk. I have one on my mirror that says, “Beautiful girl, you were made to do hard things. Believe in yourself.” I truly feel like I can conquer anything the day will throw at me after reading that. God allows my eyes to meet these sweet reminders at the most perfect times throughout my day. I promise He’ll do the same for you.

Whether 2018 was a train wreck or the best year of your life, I encourage you to choose joy every single day in 2019. Allow yourself to find the beauty in the small things, and the joy within the trials. If you are wanting this year to be different than all of the rest, I pray that you wake up each morning feeling Jesus’ love completely surrounding you. I pray that your eyes are opened to His hand that is so willingly waiting for you to grab it. I pray that you walk through your day clinging to His hand. I pray that you are able to count your blessings and realize the magnitude of Christ’s love for you. I pray that you choose joy. Every. Single. Day.