


This time of year can be daunting for many. Surrounded by invitations to find joy through consumerism. Giving, getting and satisfaction outside of ourselves can often become the focus, even when we do not want it to be. The arbitrary year-end sometimes is also a factor that contributes to a year in review, followed by self-judgement. The promises of something better can leave us feeling future focused in a way that we forget to be in the joy that is before us in the present everyday. The challenge that sometimes comes with being around lots of family or the reminder of relationships lost or never found, often are highlighted this time of year. While we cannot change our past experiences, or change others for that matter, we can change our focus. It is the one thing we always have control of, where we put our focus.
This past week in my final class with Toronto Art Therapy Institute students, we looked at the field of positive psychology and positive art therapy. It reminded me of the importance of the focus that we hold, the thoughts that shape how we feel about life and how we approach life, even in the worst of circumstances. Rick Hansen talks about the negativity bias that can sometimes interfere with allowing happiness into our life.
It is not about “thinking positively” and ignoring negative circumstances, and the feelings they bring up for us, but rather it is about keeping a balance so that we do not become overwhelmed or hyper focused on difficult circumstances (when we are not in immediate danger). For me making art is one way to change my focus for the better and rewire my brain. Sometimes it is in the act of creating, and sometimes it is focusing on what I have created as a reminder of the feeling I want to experience more of.
With this in mind I have a question for you:
What Brings You Joy?
Is it music, dancing, making art, singing, stretching, being in nature, meditating, connecting with others?
I decided to make a list of the things that bring me joy (in no particular order). It is the little things are actually what can make a big difference if we allow ourselves to notice them and savour their essence a little longer than normal with intention.
and the list goes on . . . .