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🌟 Creating a Joy Plan: 3 Steps to Anchor in Hope Amid Uncertainty 🌟

A practical 3-step guide to anchoring in joy during global chaos and uncertainty—through taking action for others, reclaiming small daily joys, and strengthening joyful connections.

DATE
January 9, 2025
AUTHOR
Desmond Upton Patton, PhD
READ
3
 min

There’s a tremendous amount of pain and turmoil in the world right now—from global wars to the devastating fires in LA to growing concerns about our democracy. So much feels uncontrollable—and the truth is, it is.

But what if joy could be our anchor? What if, in the face of chaos, we chose to root ourselves in moments of intentional action and connection? Joy doesn’t erase the pain—it gives us the strength to keep moving through it.

Here’s a 3-step plan to create your own anchor of joy:

1. Take Joyful Action for Others

Joy is more than a feeling—it’s a verb. Mobilize your resources to support those in need. Donate to relief efforts for the LA fires. Amplify organizations doing the work to ease suffering. By lifting others, we create a ripple effect of care and hope.

2. Reclaim Small Joys in Your Day

Sometimes, joy looks like taking a breath amid the chaos. Watch the latest hit movie inspired by the Golden Globes, listen to your favorite song, or treat yourself to that extra-large coffee you’ve been craving. These moments aren’t insignificant—they’re lifelines.

3. Strengthen Your Joy Network

Joy is amplified when it’s shared. Call that friend who always makes you laugh or plan a gathering with people who fill you up ( i'm planning a retreat with my squad as we speak). Connection is one of the most powerful tools we have to combat despair.

Joy isn’t a luxury. It’s a practice. It’s a way of showing up—for yourself and others—when everything feels heavy. Let’s choose to anchor ourselves in joy, even when it feels hard.

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