“Joy is not something you find; it’s something you create with the choices you make every day.”

On this first Wednesday of May, let’s explore how joy is less about luck and more about intention. Often, we wait for joy to arrive, believing it’s tied to a big achievement, a new opportunity, or someone else’s actions. But the truth is, joy begins with us. It’s something we build piece by piece, choice by choice.

Think about how small decisions impact your day. When you take a moment to appreciate the sunrise, connect with a loved one, or pursue a hobby you love, you’re choosing joy. These moments might seem small, but they add up to a life filled with meaning and fulfillment.

Now, consider the opposite. What happens when we focus only on what’s wrong or what’s missing? The more we dwell on negativity, the harder it becomes to see the beauty already present in our lives. Joy is not the absence of challenges but the ability to find light in the midst of them.

This week, make it your goal to create joy intentionally. Start by identifying three small actions you can take each day to invite joy into your life. Maybe it’s writing down one thing you’re grateful for, reaching out to someone who lifts your spirits, or simply taking a break to breathe and reset.

When you embrace joy as a choice, you empower yourself to shape your journey. Joy isn’t a destination; it’s a way of traveling through life. By creating it intentionally, you’ll find it easier to hold on to and celebrate the moments that matter most.