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Why Is Joy Different Than Happiness?

woman celebrates joy

It seems like everyone is on a mission to find the secret to happiness. But, what if we told you that there really is no secret to happiness? Would you believe us and stop looking? Furthermore, what if we told you that joy is different than happiness and you should be seeking joy? Would you believe us and start looking?

The Secret to Happiness

Here’s the secret to happiness: there is no secret. You can’t do one thing and magically become happy. It doesn’t work that way. Happiness, for many people, often comes when they get a job promotion they’d been hoping for or win a couple thousand dollars from a lottery ticket. Happiness is often found in external sources, which means that it is fleeting. Why, then, would you focus so much of your time and energy looking for something that’s fleeting? Here’s another secret: you shouldn’t.

Find Joy

Joy, on the other hand, is true delight and elation. Joy comes from within you. It’s something that you must work at and craft each and every day. Joy comes from internal sources. No external circumstances or amount of money will impact your level of joy. That’s something that is up to you. Joy is sustainable, but happiness is not. Happiness is elusive, which is why you should seek joy instead.

In Joy, Pursue Meaning

Part of crafting joy within you is pursuing meaning in your life. Instead of choosing happiness, you can choose joy through meaning. When you pursue meaning, you’re making sure you are ready for anything that comes your way. If you’re pursuing happiness, you might find yourself getting blindsided. Instead, you must know what truly matters to you based on the values you hold. Seek out things that align with your values. For example, if you are in recovery from an addiction, staying sober is of utmost importance. In pursuing long-term joy, you should seek out opportunities that help further your goal of staying sober. Short-term happiness could lead you to break your sobriety. That is the opposite of joy. Instead, find meaning in your values. This will lead you to long-term joy.

Arbor Behavioral Healthcare is here to help you with your dream of entering recovery and finding long-term joy. We can’t wait to get you to a space of recovery. We know how important sobriety is, which is why we have created programs that will benefit you. Call us today at 844-413-2690. We can’t want to speak with you!