Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.

~Henri Nouwen

When France and Argentina met in the 2022 World Cup final, it was an incredible contest that many dubbed the “greatest World Cup match in history.” As the final seconds ticked off in extra time, the score was tied 3-3, sending the soccer teams to penalty kicks. After Argentina scored the winning goal, the nation erupted in celebration. More than a million Argentineans overwhelmed downtown Buenos Aires. Drone footage spread across social media showing this raucous, happy scene. One BBC report described how the city quaked with “an explosion of joy.”

In this fast-paced world filled with constant demands and stresses, it’s all too easy to lose sight of the simple joys in life. We get caught up in the daily grind, rushing from task to task, obligation to obligation, rarely taking the time to pause and truly appreciate the small wonders around us. However, when we make the conscious choice to slow down and be present, an entire universe of joy awaits to be rediscovered.

Discovering authentic joy requires us to step outside of our whirlwind minds and come home to the beauty of the present moment. It asks that we cultivate a sense of wonder, curiosity, and gracious appreciation for the miraculous embedded within the seemingly ordinary. With a commitment to mindfulness and an open heart, we can unearth the magic of finding joy in the simplest of life’s details. And in doing so, we awaken to the truth that we are surrounded by an abundance of reasons to feel grateful and fully alive each day.

What Sparks Your Joy?

We recently reached out to people across the universe in search of a brief (video) answer to one simple question: “What Sparks Your Joy?”. The end result became the foundation for our JOYFEST 360° Signature Edition – a celebration of those sparks – the little moments, experiences, and perspectives that bring light to people’s lives. Their answers, conveyed with candor, humor, and heartwarming insight, remind us to appreciate the easily overlooked sources of wonder around us.

In this kaleidoscope of human experiences, we discover that joy comes in countless forms – but it’s always there if you take a moment to focus on it. So pause, and let these stories of Joy inspire you to notice and nurture your own sources of everyday delight – perhaps inspiring you to seek your “explosion of joy”.

Originally Published on https://www.bizcatalyst360.com/author/dennisjpitocco/

Dennis Pitocco Chief ReImaginator of 360° Nation

Dennis is the founder and CEO of 360° Nation, a multifaceted media enterprise promoting global positivity. In collaboration with his wife Ali, who serves as Chief Inspiration Officer, Dennis oversees several successful ventures; BizCatalyst 360°–an award-winning global media platform; 360° Nation Studios –producer of uplifting content and events, and; GoodWorks 360° –a pro bono consulting service for nonprofit organizations worldwide.

For over a decade, Dennis and Ali have pursued a mission to illuminate the finest aspects of humanity and leverage their resources to effect daily positive change worldwide. Their operational philosophy emphasizes presence, compassionate service, and the allocation of time, talents, and resources for societal benefit rather than solely for profit. As a contributing author to multiple best-selling books, Dennis is committed to fostering transformational change and promoting holistic wellness.

Dennis and Ali strive to exemplify responsible stewardship while influencing and showcasing humanity's highest potential. Their work reflects a dedication to ethical business practices, community engagement, and the belief that media can be a powerful force for good in the world.