Joy is a big factor in our lives. Without joy, we feel lost, we feel as if there is no meaning to anything that we do. So, do we need to invent the joy in our life – perhaps pretend that it is there when it is not? Or is it really there all along, and we need to realign our thinking to recognize it?

Finding the joy in our life simply means taking the time to look around us, and appreciate what is there. It means living in the present, giving thanks for the abundance and prosperity around us, enjoying the small things in life.

Make the effort to get outside as often as possible. Take a walk, no matter how short. Note the colors, the scents, the people – note what makes up your environment, and what your reaction to it is. Become an active part of your environment.

Remember that you are the person t hat sets the tone for your environment – both at home, and at work. And that tone involves both your attitude, and the physical tings around you. Stay in the present, and react only to that which is in the present. Hold the most positive thoughts that you can – you draw people and things to you that match your thoughts, so think positive, and make the effort to interact with those around you. A smile, a compliment – these go a long way towards building trust and good relationships.

Know that you are in control of the “things” in your environment. This includes the amount of “things” that are there, how they are arranged, predominate colors – you have input into all of this. Make the effort to cut through the clutter and present an environment that is calming, relaxing, and supportive of you. Make your environment a place where you want to be, where you feel welcome, and where you can welcome others.

The joy factor – it is all around you! Accept it, allow yourself to smile, and feel t hat smile all the way through to your soul!