Step 1 — ReFLECT

What does JOY mean to me?

JOY is _______

In my body, JOY feels like _______

JOY tells me I am _______ (safe/free/at ease)

Your answers can change often. Joy is spacious and vast.

If you don't have an answer today, that's ok. Asking the question is part of discovering your answer.

Step 2 — Share as a Gift

Tell someone what brought you joy. When we share stories of our joy, it becomes easier for everyone to notice and name it. Stories of joy helps others notice their own. Here is a script to support.

“You know what, I've been noticing my experiences of joy more lately. Right now, for me, Joy is ___. I’ve learned that talking about joy helps me be more aware of it. Hopefully you'll notice something that brings you joy today too.”

Step 3 — Ask Others

When the moment feels right, ask:

“What's been bringing you joy?"

Take a moment to pause and listen. Be present. Their answer is a gift.

Notice how they share their definitions of freedom, safety, and ease in their answer.

If they don't have an answer, that's ok. This is new for all of us. Hearing the question can be enough.

The first few times you ask this question it may feel like a stretch, and that's normal too. If you approach the person and the answer with curiosity and care, any response is worth it.