"Others have described their moments of deepest joy this way:
"In the early, early morning, before any clutter enters my mind
When I am in nature and feel at one with a leaf or a blade of grass
When I'm being creative in placing objects so that they are aesthetically pleasing
When I'm doing a good job, feeling competent, even expert, at times
Connecting with the right person at the right time
Pausing during a hectic workday to enjoy the blue sky and say, 'Thank you'
Listening to the birds or the laughter of children
When I'm spending time with the wise elderly woman who lives down the street
Sitting on my porch watching the sunset
When I'm playing hide-and-seek in the dark with my grandson
In the midst of good friends
Feeling that I truly understand and have been understood by someone I care about
Dancing"
"Think back over your life and record the moments when you have felt the most joy. Perhaps they have occurred while singing, or sitting by the ocean, or holding a child for the first time. Perhaps they have to do with the smell of autumn, or reunions with loved ones, or the satisfaction of having helped someone. Consider keeping a journal for this purpose. That way, you can begin to identify patterns of experiences that bring you joy, which may help you increase them.
"Try this simple exercise: Without staring, but with gentle focus, look at a sleeping pet, a room full of fun projects, a tree, a door, a flower, or the face — and especially the eyes — of someone you love. Sit quietly, looking at your chosen image until you know its joy."
