Finding Joy in an Overwhelming World
Photo by Sam Myers of Sam Myers Photography
It’s no secret that the world feels heavier than usual. Economic uncertainty, global conflicts, and the everyday pressures of life can make it feel like joy is something we have to chase rather than something we can cultivate. It’s easy to get swept up in the weight of it all—doom-scrolling through bad news, feeling powerless against things outside our control, and struggling to find the energy to move forward.
But here’s the truth: you don’t have to carry the whole world on your shoulders.
Joy is not just something we stumble upon when circumstances improve. It’s something we create, nurture, and protect—especially in the hardest of times. When life feels overwhelming, our focus has to shift inward: to our own lives, our own passions, and the things we can control.
The Art of Reclaiming Your Joy
Limit the Noise, but Stay Informed Intentionally
There’s a fine line between staying informed and drowning in negativity. Curate your news intake—set time limits, follow balanced sources, and take breaks when you feel overwhelmed. Your mental energy is valuable, and it should be spent on things that move your life forward.
Create, Don’t Just Consume
It’s easy to get lost in mindless scrolling, but joy is often found in creating rather than consuming. Whether it’s painting, writing, playing music, or brainstorming a new business idea, creating something tangible reconnects you with your passion and purpose. If you’re struggling to get started, give yourself permission to create without judgment—just for the joy of the process.
Revisit Your Goals (and Set New Ones)
Feeling stuck? Sometimes, all it takes is a small, forward-moving action. If you’ve lost sight of your goals, revisit them. If they no longer fit who you are now, set new ones. My upcoming book, Let’s Set Some F’n Goals!, is all about helping creatives and professionals break through resistance and take meaningful steps toward their dreams—even when life feels uncertain. The world may be chaotic, but your goals are still yours. Keep moving forward.
Protect Your Energy
Not everything or everyone deserves access to your peace. Be mindful of what drains you and where your energy is best spent. Set boundaries, say no when needed, and surround yourself with people and experiences that uplift you.
Find Joy in Small Moments
Joy doesn’t always come from big, life-changing events. Often, it’s in the small things: a deep conversation, a great song playing at the right moment, a quiet morning with coffee, the feeling of completing something that’s been weighing on you. Train yourself to notice these moments. They’re not small—they’re everything.
You Are Still in Control of Your Story
Yes, the world is uncertain. Yes, challenges exist. But you are still the main character in your own story. The decisions you make—how you spend your time, what you focus on, how you care for yourself—shape your life more than anything happening outside of you.
Keep moving forward. Keep creating. Keep finding joy.
And if you need a little push in the right direction, Let’s Set Some F’n Goals! launches soon—designed to help you reclaim your motivation, structure your goals, and keep you focused on what really matters. Because no matter how overwhelming life gets, your dreams still deserve to be pursued.
