People often ask me how and why I smile, laugh, dance and enjoy life all the time. Some may call me a happy go lucky person but I have a few habits and tactics that I use to maintain my joy. My joy is not based on life’s circumstances but it is grounded in my faith in Christ.

I have listed 10 ways that I maintain my joy despite life’s challenges…

1. Morning, mid-day and nightly prayers to God, meditation and biblical devotionals. Every morning I start my power hour with prayer and searching the scriptures.
2. Keep a gratitude journal. You can write down everything you are grateful for and watch the list continue to grow. I have journaled for at least 12 years.
3. Listen to good music – soul, jazz, country, gospel, pop and high energy rap.
4. Have a good mentor. When I have challenges I seek wisdom from my mom, aunt and spiritual mothers in my church family.
5. Spend time with friends. A good friend who listens, encourages, prays with you and cries with you is priceless. A friend who you can laugh and go to lunch with is essential during challenging seasons.

6.Read a good book. I love to keep an inspirational, romantic or well-written fiction book in my handbag or car at all times

7.Exercise. You can dance, jog or walk around the neighborhood, take a pilates class or run a 5k in your local community.

8.Avoid drama and negative talk. When gossip begins, I am the first person to try to change the subject or walk away.

9.Count it all joy. Accept that everything is temporary and try to think of the lesson that the bad times are teaching you.

10.LOVE EVERYONE. Love your family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, critics, haters, enemies and those who despise you. God will use your enemies to bless you. Call your friends on the phone, meet the for lunch, sit with the elders in your family or spend time at a local rest home. Volunteer at your local homeless shelter or hospital.

Sunglasses: Ray Ban Aviator Polarized Reflective lenses

Dress: Express Lace Corset Detail Halter Neck Sheath Dress 

Shoes: Ross Black patent pumps