A House Is Never Just a HouseI spend a lot of time looking at houses.Bedrooms. Square footage. Comparable sales. Days on market. Price per square foot. Those numbers matter. They're part of my job
Finding your joy
Dated: May 28 2025
Views: 75
1. Reconnect with what lit you up as a kid - Thinks about what you loved doing before the world told you what you should do. Was it drawing? WExploring nature? Singing? Building things? These early passions often hold clues to your core joy.
2. Pay attention to what makes you lose track of time - Flow states - when you're fully immersed in something are big indicators of joy. What are you doing when hours pass like minutes? (Don't include scrolling lol)
3. Journal about your ideal day - write out a description of your perfect day - no limitations, no cash register. What are you doing? Who are you with? Where are you? This can reveal hidden values and desires.
4. Follow you curiosity - Not everything needs to be a grand passion. Tiny sparks of interest are often stepping stones to bigger joys. Take a class try a hobby, or volunteer - even just once.
5. Talk to joyul people - surround yourself with those who radiate joy. Ask them what brings them happiness. Joy is contagious, and inspiration often comes from connection.
6. Simplify and slow down - sometimes, we can't find joy because life is too loud. Try simplifying your schedule, reducing distractions, or practicing mindfulness. Quiet makes space for clarity
7. Notice what drains you - and let go. Your joy is often hiding behind obligations, habits, or people that deplete you. Start gently releasing what doesn't serve your peace or purpose.
8. Serve others - helping others, whether through acts of kindness, support, or contribution, can awaken a deep, fulfilling joy. It shifts the focus from inward struggles to outward impact/
REMEMBER: Joy doesn't always appear as fireworks. Sometimes it's a quiet peace, a small daily ritual, or a simple laugh. Stay open, curious, and most importantly stay kind to yourself!
Tamara Van Zalen
I didn't start in real estate. I started on stage, performing in theater, and then in a classroom, teaching elementary and middle school students everything from core subjects to art. It's an unusual ....
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