How I Found My Joy

Finding joy is a journey unique to each individual, and it often takes unexpected paths. Here, I share my personal story of discovering true happiness and the lessons learned along the way.

The Beginning of the Journey

My journey to finding joy began during a period of intense self-reflection as a mid-life unemployed Hospitality professional.

Re-Exploring Interests

I started by trying out activities and hobbies that I had always been curious about but never took the time to pursue. Here are a few that made a significant impact:

• Painting: Although I had no formal training, the act of putting brush to canvas was liberating. It allowed me to express emotions and thoughts that I couldn't articulate with words. Painting greeting cards brought me through some dark moments.

• Yoga and Meditation: These practices helped me find peace within myself and taught me the importance of being present in the moment. Meditating for 10 minutes a day in the morning and evening assists me in preparing for my day and letting go of any “ick” that I have experienced during the course of the day.

• Swimming: I was an Intercolligiate swimmer and I had allowed past coaching abuse steal the joy of the water from me. Comfronting the feelings of the past, letting them go, and healing, allowed me to rekindle my joy for swimming again.

• Cooking: Experimenting in the kitchen became a creative outlet, and sharing meals with friends and family added a new layer of connection and joy. I like to host my own private “cooking shows”!

The Importance of Connection

Through this exploration, I realized that human connection played a pivotal role in my happiness. I made a conscious effort to strengthen relationships with those around me by:

• Spending Quality Time: Whether it was a meal with a friend or a family dinner, investing time in my relationships brought immense joy.

• Volunteering: Giving back to the community introduced me to incredible people and gave me a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Embracing Gratitude

A turning point in my journey was the practice of gratitude. I started keeping a gratitude journal, noting three things I was thankful for each day. This simple act shifted my focus from what's lacking to what's abundant in my life, fostering a more positive outlook.

Lessons Learned

Through my journey, I learned several valuable lessons:

• Joy is Within: True happiness comes from within, not from external circumstances or material possessions.

• Be Open to Change: Embracing change and stepping out of my comfort zone opened up new opportunities for joy.

• Mindfulness Matters: Being present and mindful in everyday activities enhanced my ability to find joy in the little things.

Finding joy is an ongoing journey, not a destination. It requires introspection, openness to new experiences, and a focus on the positive aspects of life. By embracing these principles, I have discovered a deeper, more fulfilling sense of happiness than I ever thought possible. I encourage everyone to embark on their journey to find what truly brings them joy. It takes practice and you have to “do the WORK”!

Stephanie is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and intercollegiate coaching abuse. She has worked in the past as a Speaker with the Arizona Coalition to Prevent Sexual and Domestic Violence.

Stephanie is a certified Ikigai Coach ID45632-47393

Stephanie is not a licensed therapist. Coaching is intended to enhance the Client’s life and not to treat or diagnose mental illness.