Welcome to the JOY Principles: 12 Pathways to a More JOYful Life
- Maria Newport
- Sep 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 8
Why It Matters
JOY isn't just a fleeting emotion--it's a practice, a choice, and a way of living. Studies show that cultivating positive habits and mindsets can reshape the brain, reduce stress, and increase overall well-being. But JOY doesn't happen by accident--it grows when we nurture it intentionally.
That's why at addJOY, we've created the 12 JOY Principles: twelve pathways designed to help you practice JOY in every area of your life. These principles are grounded in research, rooted in everyday experiences, and brought to life through stories and tools you can use right now.
What Are the JOY Principles?
Each principle represents a key element of a JOYful life--from Connection + Belonging to Health + Wellness. Together, they form a holistic framework that helps you build JOY step by step, in ways that are practical, personal, and deeply transformational.
Here are the 12 JOY Principles we'll be exploring in this series:
Connection + Belonging
Awe + Wonderment
Savoring + Appreciation
Humor + Amusement
Patience + Endurance
Generosity + Giving
Kindness + Courtesy
Health + Wellness
Attitude + Mindset
Soul + Spirit
Security + Confidence
Pride + Gratification
Our Story
When we first started reflecting on JOY, we realized it wasn't something we could just "hope for." We needed practices that would carry us through the ups and downs of life. That's how the JOY Principles came to be--not as abstract ideas, but as real, lived experiences.
Each principle has helped us navigate challenges, celebrate milestones, and stay grounded in what matters most. Now, we want to share them with you--not just as inspiration, but as tools you can put into practice right away.
Your Call-to-JOY
This blog series will walk you through each JOY Principle with research, stories, and practical steps you can take. You don't have to master them all at once--choose the ones that speak to you right now, and let them guide your next step toward JOY.
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