3 Steps to Live Cheerfully Beyond Circumstances

A cheerful attitude makes life more enjoyable. When we meet someone who loves to smile and is friendly, our own mood is lifted too. It is different when we meet someone who likes to complain and frown, because our energy can feel drained as well. That is why the presence of a cheerful person is usually always welcome. 

When things are going well, it feels easy to be a cheerful person. But how can we remain cheerful even in the midst of hardship?

Cheerful: Not Because of Circumstances, but a Decision

A global situation overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic does not have to make us lose our joy. It is true that some people naturally seem cheerful, as if they are never sad. But cheerfulness can be trained and cultivated. In truth, cheerfulness comes from the heart, not from depending on circumstances. Cheerfulness is also not merely an inborn trait, but also the result of our personal decision.

Depending on something temporary for joy will make us moody. When business is going well, targets are met, health is excellent, and family life is harmonious, we are cheerful. But when things do not go as expected, we become gloomy. It is different when we depend on something eternal. 

The Bible tells the story of the seventy disciples whom Jesus sent out to preach the gospel in various towns. Setting out with only simple provisions, they proclaimed that the kingdom of God was near. When they returned from the mission, they proudly reported the results of their journey to Jesus.

Then the seventy disciples returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in Your name.” – Luke 10:17

This experience of performing miracles must have been so memorable and delightful that it became the very first thing they reported to Jesus.

However, Jesus did not praise their performance. Nor did He congratulate them for succeeding in casting out demons. Instead, Jesus reminded them not to base their joy on that “victory.”  If miracles became their reason for rejoicing, the disciples would not endure when difficult times or persecution came.

“Nevertheless, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” – Luke 10:20

Jesus wants the greatest reason for our joy to be that we have been saved. Heaven, that is the eternal happiness we must always remember. The world, with all its pleasures as well as its evil, is only temporary. 

For: "All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers, and the flowers fall. – 1 Peter 1:24

3 Steps to Becoming a Cheerful Person

Life’s struggles and changing dynamics often consume our focus, so that we sometimes forget our heavenly purpose. Therefore, try to keep your mood well each day with the following three tips:

1. Start the Day with Gratitude

Morning is a crucial time that determines the quality of our day. If we are lazy or irritable in the morning, there is a strong chance our mood will be poor throughout the day. Therefore, decide to be joyful every time you wake up in the morning. 

Be grateful for even the smallest things. Whether you can get out of bed, prepare breakfast, or simply chat with your spouse. These things may sound trivial, but they are truly worth being thankful for. Are there not many people who do not have the opportunity to wake up in the morning, for example because they are ill?

Instead of thinking about work or burdens, begin your day with gratitude. A thankful heart will make everything feel easier and lighter.

All the days of the afflicted are bad, but a cheerful heart has a continual feast. – Proverbs 15:15

2. Create Personal Cheerfulness

Starting the day with joy is not always easy. Besides encouraging yourself to be thankful, do things that make your life more cheerful. 

Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray! Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praises! – James 5:13

There are many new habits we can begin to practice to make our days more cheerful, such as: journaling, keeping a gratitude journal, praying, reading Psalms, praising God, tidying up your room or house. These things can help us be more cheerful as we begin the day.

Exercise also helps increase feelings of happiness. When we exercise, our brains release dopamine, often called the happiness hormone. Regular exercise increases endorphin and serotonin levels, which can reduce stress, as well as lessen pain and depression. Make time to exercise, whether in the morning before class / work, in between household responsibilities, or in the afternoon after your activities.

3. Make Peace with Yourself

There are times when we go through heavy and exhausting days. Even so, you can always recharge your spiritual energy. Come to the Source of Life, who will refresh your heart and enable you to make peace with yourself, whatever you may be going through.

Only those who are at peace with themselves can remain cheerful and radiate cheerfulness to those around them. They fully realize that no human being is perfect, including themselves. Small mistakes do not immediately ruin their mood. They can be tolerant toward themselves and others.

If you are used to setting an alarm to wake up in the morning, try also setting an alarm to remind yourself, “Have I smiled today?” Especially during busy hours that can make you tense. Smiling for a few seconds or greeting family members in the morning or at night when eating together can also be a good way to brighten the day. 

Being cheerful when things are going well is ordinary. Remaining joyful in the middle of difficult circumstances, that is what is extraordinary, because it requires extra effort. Always remember that our greatest joy is heaven. Start the day with gratitude, do things that make the heart glad, and fill your heart with divine peace. May your cheerfulness shine wherever you are!

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References:
www.nationalgeographic.grid.id/read/13309283/olahraga-cara-mudah-dan-murah-untuk-bahagia

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