This Is What Joy Looks Like in Real Life

Let me be honest with you.

There were days—long, quiet, tear-stained days—when I felt like giving up. When the business didn’t go the way I planned. When doors closed that I knew God had opened. When the clients disappeared, the bills kept piling, and the voice of doubt grew louder than my prayers.

But here’s what I’ve learned in the deep end of those moments: joy is not a mood—it’s a weapon.

Not the giggly, everything’s-going-perfect kind of joy. I’m talking about deep, soul-rooted joy that stands firm even when everything around you feels like it’s falling apart. The kind of joy that doesn’t wait for good news—it chooses to stand on Good News.

Joy Isn’t a Denial of Struggle

I used to think that being joyful meant I had to stay upbeat, positive, and hopeful 24/7. That if I was really walking in faith, I wouldn’t feel tired, discouraged, or overwhelmed.

But that's not truth—that’s pressure.

Real joy isn’t about pretending things are fine. It’s about saying, “Yes, this is hard… but God is still good.” It’s about choosing to smile, not because life is perfect, but because you know you're not walking through the chaos alone.

In Nehemiah 8:10, it says, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” That verse has carried me. When my strength ran out, when I felt like I had nothing left to give—joy became my strength.

Business Isn’t Just Strategy—It’s Spiritual

For those of us building a business with purpose, you know the rollercoaster. One moment you're excited about a new idea, the next you're questioning everything. I’ve had launches flop. I've heard “no” after “no.” I’ve had to pivot more times than I can count.

And through it all, I discovered this: when I protect my joy, I protect my vision.

Joy gives clarity in confusion. It brings peace in uncertainty. It quiets the inner critic and allows room for divine strategy. When I started showing up from a place of joy instead of hustle, everything shifted. Clients noticed. I felt lighter. My decisions became spirit-led instead of stress-fueled.

How I Cultivate Joy Daily (Even When Life is Loud)

Here’s what helps me stay rooted, especially when things feel chaotic:

• Morning worship before emails. I won’t let notifications shape my day—God goes first.
  
  
• Gratitude journaling. I list 3 things I'm thankful for before I list my to-dos.
  
  
• Speaking life. Proverbs 18:21 reminds me—my words carry power. I speak joy, peace, and breakthrough over my day.
  
  
• Taking joy breaks. Yep, actual joy breaks. Whether it’s stepping outside, playing worship music, enjoying activities with my husband, or laughing with a friend—joy is essential. I protect it.
  
  

Joy vs. Happiness: Why This Matters

Happiness reacts to circumstances. Joy responds to truth.

And the truth is this: God is still working. Even when I can’t see it. Even when I feel stuck. Even when business slows down.

So if you’re in a place where it feels like nothing’s going your way—pause. Breathe. Let joy in. Because when you choose joy in the chaos, you’re not being fake—you’re being faithful.

You’re saying, “Lord, I trust You more than I trust this moment.”
And that? That changes everything.

Friend, Here’s My Encouragement to You:

💛 Your joy is a light in the dark—don’t dim it for anyone.
💛 You don’t have to feel strong to be strong—just stay connected to the Source.
💛 Keep showing up. Joy will carry you farther than strategy ever could.

Ready to Cultivate More Joy in Your Life & Business?

Listen to Episode 9: "Joy in the Chaos: Finding Light in Business Struggles"

Discover how to hold onto joy—even when life and business feel overwhelming. Real talk. Practical tips. Biblical truth.

👉 Tune in now and be encouraged!

You are not alone in this.

I see you. I’m praying for you. And I believe your breakthrough is coming.