"When you have warmth of gratitude in your heart, summer never ends." This was a quote I stitched about a few summers ago. It was when I realized that summer was more like a "state of mind". When you have a heart filled with gratitude about the good things you have experienced - and even in the midst of some bad situations - summer can be a season that never ends for you. ☀️
This was what I carried through our somehow gloomy vacation in Boracay. Initially I felt downcast because of the weather, but then I told myself that I should enjoy this time rather than wallow in something I cannot change. ( I mean who among us can change the weather lol?)
When there was an opportunity to pose for the 'gram, I took it. The "old me" would have said no because the weather was "not cooperating" and "not good enough for the gram" (crazy crazy old me). Now I view everything as "precious moments" that cannot be repeated again in history - thus I make the most out of it!
In these few group photos with my sisters, I told them that we can pose in this "Boracay sand castle" since (1.) There was an opportunity to do so; and (2.) We did not have evening photos with this sand castle thingy. I was just glad that everyone cooperated. All photos saved for Memoriesss!!✨
💌LinkedIn Newsletter Time!💌
Embracing Joy in the Shadows: Transforming the Workplace with Resilience and Positivity
"As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same." - Marianne Williamson
In my early days at the office, I found myself in a peculiar situation. While my heart brimmed with enthusiasm and satisfaction, I noticed a stark contrast in the atmosphere around me. My colleagues, seasoned and experienced, often expressed a sense of dissatisfaction with their work. This discrepancy didn't just puzzle me; it stirred an internal conflict. How could I reconcile my joy with the apparent discontent around me?
Navigating this maze of emotions taught me a vital lesson about empathy. It's easy to share in the sorrows and struggles of others, but what about sharing joy in a sea of discontent? This journey was more than about understanding my colleagues; it was about grasping the complexities of empathy in our professional and personal lives. It's about being sensitive to the emotions of others while holding on to your happiness.
In a world often clouded with dissatisfaction, your joy and positivity can be a radiant beacon, inspiring change and hope in the workplace.
Being the youngest and least experienced in the room often meant my opinions and feelings were easily overshadowed. I hesitated to express my joy, fearing it might seem inappropriate or naïve. But this experience shed light on the underlying issues of age dynamics in the workplace. It's a delicate balance, acknowledging your youth and inexperience while also giving yourself permission to feel and express your genuine emotions.
As I navigated these waters, I realized the importance of sharing joy, no matter the setting. Suppressing happiness doesn't alleviate the struggles of others. Instead, finding a balance between empathy for my colleagues and honoring my personal happiness became my mission. This journey was about learning to be a beacon of positivity, even when it seemed like a solitary endeavor.
Our society often glorifies suffering and undervalues joy, especially in the workplace. We're taught to believe that the harder the struggle, the more commendable the effort. But through my experiences, I've come to challenge this notion. Why should we downplay joy and satisfaction in our professional lives? Isn't it just as important to celebrate these moments as it is to acknowledge the hardships?
Throughout this journey, I drew inspiration from various individuals who have faced and overcome significant challenges. Their stories underscored the power of resilience and a positive attitude. It's not about ignoring the difficulties; it's about not letting them overshadow every aspect of your life. Their courage and determination inspired me to embrace my happiness and share it, despite the prevailing attitudes around me.
So, how do we find joy and satisfaction in our daily lives? It starts with acknowledging all our emotions – the good, the bad, and everything in between. It's about focusing on the positives, even in a sea of negatives. And most importantly, it's about creating joy intentionally. Simple acts like celebrating small victories, expressing gratitude, and nurturing positive relationships can transform our perspective and enrich our professional and personal lives.
Imagine you're standing in an office where everyone's faces are etched with lines of dissatisfaction, yet your heart is quietly bursting with joy for the work you do. It's a challenging spot, isn't it? You might feel like dampening your spirit to match the mood, but I want to tell you something crucial: your joy, your satisfaction in your job, is not just a personal triumph; it's a beacon of hope. It's okay to feel out of place with your happiness. Remember, every smile, every spark of contentment you feel, has the power to light up a corner in someone else's world. Don't dim your light because the room is dark; instead, let your joy be a guide, a gentle reminder that satisfaction in work is possible, even in the most unlikely environments.
Now, let's talk about empathy and age dynamics in the workplace. Being the youngest or the least experienced can sometimes feel like you're at the bottom of a steep hill, looking up. It’s easy to believe that your joy might seem insignificant or out of place. But here’s the thing – your fresh perspective, your enthusiasm, is invaluable. It's a breath of fresh air in a stale room. Embrace your unique position. Share your joy, not with loud declarations, but with quiet resilience and persistent positivity. In doing so, you're not just fostering a better work environment for yourself; you're subtly shifting the culture, paving the way for a workplace where joy and satisfaction are not just accepted, but celebrated. Your happiness is a powerful tool; wield it wisely, and watch as it transforms not just your world, but the worlds of those around you.