I love this phrase and it has become something of a mantra for me – especially when times get tough, and heaven knows we have all been through a tough time recently.

When things get chaotic in the wider world we all turn to our instincts to guide us forward, we rely on those we are closest to and we hold those we love ever tighter. One thing that we rarely do, however, is to prioritise joy in life.

It’s easy to take things too seriously

As parents with responsibilities it is easy to take things too seriously: to watch the news avidly for updates, to be ever fearful for the safety and security of our children, and to micro manage every element of their life in an attempt to keep them safe. Top tip: stop watching the news – it doesn’t help anything!

As summer is in full swing and a return to school around the corner, I would like to urge you to take on my mantra and consider committing yourself to the ‘Radical Pursuit of Joy’.

To me this simply means that no matter what is going on, I am committed to finding a moment of joy within it, the silver lining if you will, the light at the end of the tunnel, or even a reasoning that makes it easier for me to accept current discomfort.

This is a lot to do with mind-set and attitude, of course, but also to do with habits and behaviours.

By taking care of ourselves everyday and incorporating joy into every element of life, we can turn our daily routines into things of beauty and pleasure.

Suddenly, a healthy breakfast becomes a delight because we choose to truly appreciate it and make the effort to be more creative.

Our daily exercise becomes less of a chore and more of a treat as we include silliness and laughter into our walks, runs and bike rides. Believe me, there is not much which cannot be brightened by a silly voice or a funny walk! Try it!

Fresh flowers and kitchen karaoke

This summer, pay attention to the areas of stress and obligation in your life and try to inject a little more humour and delight. Fresh flowers bring joy to the sitting room. Lovely scented candles bring fragrance and joy to bedrooms. Kitchen dancing makes meal preparation so much fun and I guarantee after a game of kitchen karaoke you will never see your spatula in the same way again!

When you next feel overwhelmed or fed up, ask yourself ‘where is the joy in this?’ Allow your quiet inner voice to whisper to you, and most importantly listen to it! It never lies and who knows, it may just reveal to you something you have never noticed before which might just change your life!