Top 5 ways to find joy

How little habits can lead to real happiness.

It is easy to fall prey to depression and sadness with everything that has been going on in the world these days. The trick to maintaining a positive attitude and living in the joy God has for us is as easy as following five simple steps.

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - When God created us, He did not design us to hurt each other or to live with negative emotions. He created us to love one another and to help encourage each other. 

In reference to crosswalk.com's "5 Ways to Fight Back with Joy When Life Seems Dark," Catholic Online has created five ways to stay positive despite the many curve balls life throws our way.

1. Smile

You may be wondering what good a smile can do, especially when it isn't genuine, but let me tell you: Something as simple as a smile can mean the world to someone.

Maybe you're on a public bus and you notice someone sitting across from you. Offer them a smile. Even if you feel a bit down-in-the-dumps, that person may be in need of a smile. You never know, they may even smile back and create in you a real feeling of happiness. 

2. Laugh

Everyone has heard that laughter is the best medicine -and it's true! When you laugh, your brain releases endorphines that help lighten your mood.

Watch a funny movie, read a silly book, spend some time trying to hold a conversation with a toddler. Get out there and do whatever it takes to make yourself laugh.

3. Sing

Singing is another activity that releases endorphins. You don't even need to belt it out at the top of your lungs. Humming your favorite tune is just as good -and  may even spare someone in your household your off-key notes!

4. Accept what you can't control

Sometimes smiling, laughing and singing just isn't possible. Things happen -and that's okay. A period of mourning is not only expected, it's entirely necessary in some instances.

No one expects tragic events to strike. Most of the time when things go wrong, it is entirely out of our control. This is when we need to rely on God and His Love to get us through the day. It is perfectly normal to mourn -Just try not to wallow for an unnecessary amount of time. We all mourn differently and take different amounts of time to move on. 

If you feel like you just can't pull yourself from the overwhelming sadness, turn to your Church family and to God, the everlasting healer of our souls.

5. Pass it on

You get what you give, or so they say. Complimenting others, blessing them and offering positive comments encourages others and accomplishes the spreading of God's love. It is easy to say something nice to someone -whether you know them or not.

Try complimenting someone's outfit or tell a family member they are appreciated. More often than not, when people receive positive feedback, they want to reciprocate. Remember, when life begins to dim, God sent us friends and family to lean on. Don't be afraid to take advantage of those opportunities to reach out.

Like our list? Check out our other top lists on sex, lifting your spirits, dealing with anger, love, common misquotes, how to give and healing.

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