Living Joyfully When You're Weary

We all get tired and weary. We all need a break. Unfortunately, life goes on--seemingly more out of control--in the midst of trials and personal struggles. This is also the time in our lives when it is most difficult to live joyfully. So, how can we have joy when we're tired and weary with life?

• Take a Step Back
• When feeling overwhelmed, step back from the situation and take a few deep breaths. Don't think about your issues, just think about taking a little break. Sometimes a few minutes of being alone and taking cleansing breaths will help put things in perspective. On difficult days with my little one, I can sometimes get two minutes to myself while she's playing, and that little respite helps me refocus for the rest of the chaos afternoon.
• Find Your Motivation
• Everyone has a driving force that keeps them going. When we're weary, we need to remember what that motivation is. We're expecting our second child in the spring. I sometimes get weary and tired of being sick and not being able to do all the things I'm used to doing. When I step back and think about my motivation: serving my family and growing a healthy baby, things become a little less overwhelming, and I have a goal before me.
• Count Your Blessings
• This is the most important, yet most difficult, part of being joyful when you're "just done." It can be hard to see past current circumstances, but there is always something to be grateful for. Thinking of all your little blessings can help put everything else in perspective.

Life can be exhausting, and times of calm seem too few and far between. But, by taking a step back to regroup, finding your motivation to put things in perspective, and counting your blessings, you can be joyful in the midst of weariness.