Loss is an inevitable part of the human experience. Whether it be the loss of a loved one, a job, a relationship, or even a cherished dream, the pain and sorrow that accompany such experiences can feel overwhelming. In the midst of grief, it may seem impossible to imagine a life filled with joy once again. 

However, as time passes and wounds begin to heal, it is indeed possible to rediscover joy and embrace the renewal of life. For the month of June, I want to explore the transformative journey of finding joy after loss and offer insights and practical steps to guide you on your path toward healing and happiness. 

As you know, much of what I write about is based on my own life experience balancing joy and sadness after loss.  But it is also important to mention that I have learned so much from my JOLT family.  As I have often said, I wrote to you from my darkness, and you responded to me from yours…and together, we found our way back to the light. Here are some of the themes I hope we can explore together:

Acknowledge and Honor Your Grief:

The first step in rediscovering joy after loss is to acknowledge and honor your grief. Allow yourself the time and space to mourn and process your emotions fully. It is essential to understand that grieving is a unique and personal experience. Be gentle with yourself and give yourself permission to feel the pain. Embracing your grief allows you to lay a foundation for healing and ultimately find a new appreciation for life.

Seek Support:

During times of loss, it’s crucial not to isolate yourself. Reach out to your support network, whether it’s family, friends, or a therapist. Surrounding yourself with understanding and empathetic individuals who can listen and provide comfort can make a world of difference. Joining support groups or engaging in therapy sessions can offer invaluable guidance and insights while reminding you that you’re not alone on this journey.

Embrace Self-Care:

Self-care is essential during times of loss. Engage in activities that nurture your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This may include exercise, meditation, journaling, pursuing hobbies, or spending time in nature. Taking care of yourself helps rebuild your strength, resilience, and capacity to experience joy once again.

Rediscover Meaning and Purpose:

Loss often prompts us to reevaluate our lives and priorities. Take this opportunity to reflect on what truly brings meaning and purpose to your existence. Explore new passions, set new goals, or reignite old ones. Channeling your energy into endeavors that align with your values and aspirations can infuse your life with a renewed sense of purpose and joy.

Practice Gratitude:

Obviously, gratitude is something I have been focused on for many years. Without a doubt, my practice of finding Just One Little Thing saved me.  Gratitude is a powerful tool in healing and rediscovering joy. Even amidst pain and loss, there are still things to be grateful for. Cultivate a gratitude practice by regularly expressing appreciation for the small blessings in your life. This simple act can shift your focus from what is lost to what remains and open your heart to the abundance of joy that surrounds you.

Take Small Steps:

Healing takes time, and rediscovering joy is often a gradual process. Take small steps forward, celebrate small victories, and be patient with yourself if you have setbacks. Allow yourself to experience happiness even when it feels fleeting. Celebrate moments of laughter, find solace in the beauty of everyday life, and acknowledge the progress you’ve made on your journey of healing.

Rediscovering joy after loss is a deeply personal and transformative journey. It may not be easy, and the path may be filled with ups and downs. But by honoring your grief, seeking support, practicing self-care, rediscovering meaning and gratitude, and taking small steps forward, you can gradually open yourself to the possibility of joy once again. Remember, healing is not about forgetting or erasing the pain; it’s about embracing the fullness of life, cherishing the memories of what was lost, and embracing the renewal that comes after the storm. With time and resilience, you can find joy and create a life that honors both your past and your future.

I look forward to connecting with you and learning from each other this month.

With Love and Gratitude,

Kelly