The Joy You Make

Find the Silver Linings--Even on Your Darkest Days

By: Steven Petrow

Narrated by: Michael Butler Murray, Steven Petrow, Maria Shriver

From award-winning Washington Post columnist Steven Petrow, a guide to finding joy even during life’s most difficult times

AN OPEN FIELD PUBLICATION FROM MARIA SHRIVER

We all know what it’s like to experience the disappointments and sorrows of life. Unexpected challenges like layoffs, divorce, illness, and the death of a loved one can leave us hurting and isolated. Add to that the unending anxiety we feel at the state of the world—political strife and global upheavals—and we end up with a recipe for . . . joy?

Yes, says journalist Steven Petrow, who has lived through all of those things, and arrived at a surprising conclusion: Joy is always present—in our everyday routines, in ties to those we care about, even in our grief. It may be easier to see and feel it during the good times, but we can learn to find joy even in the darkest days. All we need is a road map—and now we have one.

In The Joy You Make, Petrow explores the many expressions of joy and shows readers how to find, cultivate, and share it. He takes us on a journey from the darkness of the Arctic to a frenetic cancer ward in Manhattan, a trip that includes his parents’ deaths, the breakup of his marriage, and his sister’s cancer diagnosis. Combining his personal experiences with research and expert interviews, Petrow asks (and answers) the question: “What if there was a way to find the joy in everything?”

Come join him on his search, and make it yours.

Worthwhile book on joy

I liked the mix of practical advice ideas, personal stories, and science. Lots to work with to be found here.

A joy to read

I love the honesty of Steve’s story. Very relatable and gives me many ideas and ways to add joy to my life

Needed this positivity

I lost my husband a few years ago and can get stuck in the dark. I already practice some of these methods but I will start to implement a lot more of these practices.

Taking things for granted

I thought the book was great for where I am in life. Finding happiness in the simplest things and your loved ones is so important. This read is a great reminder of how you see the world can make all
Of the difference.