Lynette Lewis-Beating the Joy Stealers Handout
BEATING THE JOY STEALERS
Joy Stealer #1 – COMPARISONS
It’s so tempting to compare ourselves to others, or to the ideas we had for our own life that haven’t yet transpired. Joy is stolen when we focus on what we don’t yet have. The key to combating this joy stealer is to celebrate the gifts you have now. What are the perks unique to this season of your life? How can you more fully enjoy those perks vs. wishing for benefits that go with another season? Focus on those and joy will grow.
Joy Stealer #2 – IMPATIENCE
We live in an impatient society. We want what we want now and often believe we deserve it sooner rather than later! The truth is, many things are simply better when they emerge more slowly. Imagine having a baby only five days after conception vs. nine months later when there’s been time to prepare physically and emotionally. Slow roasting produces more flavor in a prime rib than microwaving ever will! The same is true in work and our personal lives. We are better prepared and can be so much more appreciative of progress when patience has worked in us what only waiting can do!
Joy Stealer #3 – FEAR
Fear is so often crouching right at our door, telling us we can’t or shouldn’t make the next move toward our dreams. Interestingly, 92% of what we worry about or fear never happens, so we must learn to cast fear aside, push it back, and go for every dream in our hearts. Don’t wait for permission! It’s amazing how much we learn in the face of fear, simply by moving forward.
Joy Stealer #4 – COMPLAINING
We believe what we hear ourselves saying, and when we complain we are validating whatever is negative in our lives. Sure there are negatives to face, but when we learn the vocabulary of hope and possibility, it energizes and empowers us. It is a choice we each must make. Will we be positive and hopeful, or negative and hopeless? We must train our tongue to speak life-giving words to ourselves and to others. Joy will increase when we do!
©Lynette Lewis, Inc
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