When work stress builds up, and exhaustion sets in, it’s easy to forget what actually brings you joy. But engaging in joy-giving activities isn’t just about having fun. It’s a powerful way to support your mental health and work resilience.

Joy helps counterbalance stress, boosts energy, and increases motivation. If you feel mentally drained or disconnected, finding activities that genuinely bring you happiness can recharge your mind and improve your ability to handle work challenges.

Why joy-giving activities matter for resilience

• Reduces stress and burnout: Engaging in activities you love lowers cortisol levels and shifts your brain into a recovery state.
• Boosts emotional resilience: Doing things that bring joy builds a sense of fulfilment, making it easier to handle setbacks.
• Enhances focus and creativity: When your brain experiences positive emotions, problem-solving and innovation improve.
• Strengthens work-life balance: Having non-work-related activities prevents work stress from dominating your mental space.

How to find your joy-giving activities

1. Reflect on what brings you genuine happiness

Sometimes, we forget what brings us joy because we’re too busy. Take a moment to think about activities that energise rather than drain you.

✔ Ask yourself:

• What’s something I used to love but stopped doing?
• When do I feel most engaged and excited?
• What small moments make me smile during the day?

2. Make joy a priority, not an afterthought

It’s easy to push joyful activities aside when work feels overwhelming, but that’s exactly when you need them most.

✔ Try this:

• Schedule a non-negotiable joy break during the day (even if it’s just 10 minutes).
• Add playfulness to work. Listen to music, use fun stationery, or take creative breaks.
• Engage in hobbies that have nothing to do with productivity, such as art, dancing, gardening, or playing an instrument.

3. Integrate joy into your workday

Joy doesn’t have to be limited to your free time. You can infuse small moments of joy into your work routine.

✔ Try this:

• Start your day with an uplifting playlist, podcast, or morning ritual.
• Take joyful micro-breaks. Step outside, stretch, or chat with a colleague.
• End your workday with a gratitude reflection, focusing on what went well.

Final thoughts

Finding joy-giving activities isn’t a luxury. It’s a tool for maintaining mental health and resilience. Whether it’s a hobby, a social connection, or a simple moment of appreciation, prioritising joy helps you stay energised and engaged in work and life.

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