The French phrase “joie de vivre” came to mind recently as I thought about what I most want to carry into the year ahead. The joy of living—that’s what rings my bell.

I’ve long noticed a connection between those who seem happy and engaged with life and those who show little spark at all. You’ve probably met people who aren’t exactly deadbeats, but they have no desire to get up in the morning and meet the day head-on. They move through life without energy or enthusiasm.

I’ll admit, there are days I fall into that second category. Cloudy days are often the worst. When the sun hides, I feel emotionally out of sync. Even small tasks, like making coffee, feel like a chore. Psychologists have a name for this: seasonal affective disorder, or SAD.

I’ve wrestled with SAD most of my adult life, and I just recently discovered it’s not my imagination. Clinicians know that reduced sunlight can disrupt the body’s internal clock and lead to depression. 

My low-energy days might not be obvious to others. But when they ask why I’m being a “couch potato,” I find myself slipping even further into that state. My productivity tanks. No writing, no laundry, no cleaning, no shopping and very little cooking. Everything takes a back seat.

So how does this tie into the joy of living? Well, the people who question me on those days—though likely well-meaning—often end up disrupting my equilibrium. Their comments hit a nerve and drain the joy right out of me. I get irritated. Their questions bore me, and I probably bore them right back.

As I get older, I find myself more sensitive to others’ words and intentions. But I also want to model the joy of living in how I engage with people. That means choosing words that are encouraging, loving and kind. It means paying attention to my posture and body language: facing the person I’m speaking with, keeping my head up and making eye contact. It means avoiding crossed arms or distracted glances and never being condescending. How we present ourselves reflects our outlook on life and our reputation depends on it.

In the Gospel of Mark, there’s a verse I hold close: “All things are possible to those who believe” (Mark 9:23). This verse motivates me to push through difficult days and strive to be a joyful presence to those around me. Try it—memorize that verse and repeat it to yourself. With a little faith and intention, the joy of living can return to your life too. 

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