Joy vs. Happiness: Why Chasing Sparks Isn’t Enough

What if the feeling you’re chasing isn’t meant to be chased at all? Carmen shares why happiness is a spark and joy is a lighthouse, and how learning the difference changed her life. From a tender childhood memory - horseback riding boots -  that cut into the back of her knees while her heart soared - to a recent doctor visit that spiraled into anger, she shows how accessing joy can steady your breath, shift your perspective, and help you move forward when everything feels heavy.We talk about happiness as external and fleeting: bonuses, sunny walks, a favorite song that hits just right. Then we pivot to joy as internal, durable, and trainable - an inner practice built on stored memories of being loved, seen, and worthy. You’ll hear practical ways to build a “joy library,” from saving three anchoring memories to keeping a playlist ready for emotional first aid. Carmen also digs into negativity bias, why we rubberneck at wreckage, and how to flip that reflex so your attention feeds what you want more of.Boundaries play a starring role. Protecting joy means becoming more selective with people and inputs, not as a wall but as a welcome mat for the right ones. As you curate relationships that amplify your peace, you create space for new light to enter. The goal isn’t to erase sadness or cling to happiness. It’s to trust that both pass - and to practice the skill that outlives every mood: joy.If this conversation helped you see a way through, share it with a friend who needs the reminder. Subscribe for more grounded, practical tools, and leave a review to tell us your favorite joy memory - we’d love to hear it!  Thank you for stopping by.  Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share.  You can now watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth You can also support AATJ by shopping at our STORE - Or by and buying us a coffee. We'd appreciate that greatly.  Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481Editing by Team A-JHost, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER:  As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast.  Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.