Lets be real, life feels heavy often
But even in the mess and stress… joy is possible.
Hey y’all, welcome to Lovin My Daughter-in-law podcast, where connection, love, and a whole lot of fun come together. I’m LeAnn Austin, boy mom and teacher turned master-certified life coach. Who once had all the feelings, when cute girlies started dating my sons. I had to learn a lot about love, boundaries, and connection, not just with my daughters-in-law, but with myself. That’s how Lovin My Daughter-in-law was born.
So if you’re craving more love, connection, and fun in your life, especially the kind that starts from within, this podcast is for you.
Today’s episode #199: Finding Joy When Life Feels Heavy
I’m so glad you’re here today because we’re talking about something we all want, and maybe we struggle with sometimes ~ Joy.
Yes, joy. That warm, full belly, deep kind of feeling that makes life feel lighter, brighter, and just plain good. Even when life has all its ups and downs.
I do get asked now and then, LeAnn, how do you find joy when life feels heavy? And my answer is: You can…
Even in seasons that are messy, complicated, or downright hard, joy is still possible. It doesn’t mean ignoring challenges or pretending that everything’s perfect. It means choosing to cultivate joy, because we actually have agency in this. We can make small conscious choices every day that tilt our hearts toward joy.
Of course, it’s not always easy. Sometimes our mind, body, and spirit all feel like they’re working against us.
Maybe you’re exhausted physically. Mentally, it feels like there’s a million things swirling. Emotionally, maybe there’s worry or grief. Spiritually, it can feel like connection is so far away.
All of that can make joy feel really far away, and that’s okay. Acknowledging it is the first step.
Here’s something powerful that Russell M. Nelson reminded us: “The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our life and everything to do with the focus of our lives.”
Think about that for a second. It’s not that life has to be perfect, or all the problems have to disappear. It’s where we put our focus.
Even in seasons that are messy, joy is possible. If we choose to notice the little sparks, the tiny wins, the laughter, the warmth of connection, the beauty we might otherwise overlook.
So how do we do it? Well, here are a few little reminders.
First name it. Notice when joy shows up, even for a moment. Did your child or grandchild say something funny? Did the sun hit the leaves just right? Did your favorite song come on? That’s joy.
Second, shift your focus. Instead of dwelling on the heaviness, ask yourself, “What’s good here? What’s beautiful?” Even a little shift makes a huge difference.
Third, create it. Small habits, little rituals, intentional moments ~ these build joy. Light a candle. Go for a walk. Call a friend. Journal a few things you’re grateful for.
And fourth, remember the bigger picture. Joy isn’t dependent on perfection, it’s about presence, connection, gratitude, and noticing what is.
Even in hard seasons, even when life feels overwhelming, joy can show up. And the more we practice these choices, the easier it gets.
If you’re like me and you want to create and feel more joy this holiday season ~ for yourself, for your friends, and for your family ~ I’d love for you to join us in Connection Crew.
We will explore so many ways to feel and cultivate more joy in your life. And yes, I’ll even share a fun JOY acronym to help you remember simple, playful ways to spark joy every day.
So today, take a moment and ask yourself: “Where can I invite Joy in right now?”
It might be small, it might be quiet. But I promise, even the tiniest spark can light up your whole day.
Remember y’all, joy isn’t about circumstances. It’s about choosing, noticing, and creating. And it’s always available if you’re willing to look for it. Hmm, something to think about.
Thanks for listening today. I hope you find even a little spark of joy in your day. And if you want more, come join us in Connection Crew for some fun, playful, heart-centered ways to grow and feel joy all season long.
Here’s to joy, connection, fun, and love. Have a good one y’all.
Thanks for hanging out with me today on Lovin My Daughter-in-law podcast. I hope you’re walking away with a little more connection, love, and lightness in your heart.
If this episode made you smile, tap the follow button and share it with a friend.
And if you’re tired of walking on eggshells, second guessing yourself, feeling disconnected, or ready to learn all about your nervous system, come join us inside Connection Crew or grab some One-on-One coaching. I’d love to be your coach and cheer you on.
Until next time, be you, love you, build connections, and have some fun.