5 Ways to Spark Joy

Written by Ellen Park

Everyone is busy. We are artists, students, and entrepreneurs, always multitasking and juggling responsibilities. As great as it is to be doing more, often times we lose the touch of human connectivity. We are glued to our screens and constantly distracted.

This holiday season, I challenge you to make meaningful human connection. 

Here are 5 Ways to Spark Meaningful Connections: 

1) Give thanks on paper

There is something special about sitting down and thinking of a specific person and thanking them for the impact they make in your life. Take time to show your appreciation to the people around you with handwritten notes. The holiday season is not all about physical gifts that you wrap but also taking time to uplift one another. To your mother that has supported you through the toughest times, your significant other who wakes up 10 minutes earlier to make you breakfast, and your friends who are always offering you their ears to listen. 

2) Make your actions go viral!

Spread kindness to others by igniting a chain reaction. Whether it is paying for a stranger's coffee at your go-to cafe or baking your neighbor a festive cake, you can be the one to start a bigger movement of kindness in your city. Be creative and offer your help without asking for anything other than that they go out and help another. 

3) Socialize your fitness

We plug in our headphones and ignore the people around us. Switch it up and invite a friend to run with you in the park or take a fun interactive fitness class! Motivate each other to stay loyal to a healthy, active lifestyle. There are so many offered but if you want an unbiased recommendation, book a Drunk Yoga class for you and your friends ;)

Sip on some coffee, juice, or wine of your choice and be ready to laugh, stretch, and make lasting memories.

4) Plan a fun, relaxing spa night

Have your friends bring their favorite cheeses and wine pairings, and lay out face masks, nail polish, and finally catch up! With the holidays and all the office parties and travel plans, it is hard to have quality face time. There is so much you probably missed in each other's lives. Take the time to update on your friends' news and celebrate each other's exciting plans!

5) Volunteer 

Time is one of the hardest resources to give up but one of the most valuable. Give the gift of your time and volunteer for one of the many great organizations out there. Connect with your fellow volunteers and make a difference in your communities!

This holiday season, take time to be mindful and appreciate all the people around you who make life all that more meaningful. Connect, encourage, and inspire community.

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash