This weekend, my husband and I celebrated our 22nd wedding anniversary.
Nothing fancy. No big plans. Just a lot of golf… and a lot of fun.
It got me thinking about the evolution of life and relationships. We met playing tennis in our 40s, and here we are decades later, learning a completely new sport together. Still active. Still curious. Still competitive (probably too competitive if I am being honest).
Scrabble, Rummikub, tennis, golf… we like to play. (I’ve tried to get him into Mahjong, but no luck there.)
We are insanely competitive in everything we play, but the truth is it’s not about winning.
It’s about playing.
Having something you enjoy. Something that challenges you. Something that connects you. To yourself or to someone else.
And more importantly, something that reminds you that life isn’t just about responsibilities.
Because for a long time, I didn’t feel that way.
When I was a young corporate executive, raising a family, always in perpetual motion, I felt like I was mostly “surviving” my busy, busy life. There wasn’t much space for joy. Or at least, it didn’t feel accessible.
Now, through my coaching work, I see both ends of the spectrum:-People in the thick of it. Careers, kids, pets, long days, and long commutes. Feeling like there’s no time for themselves.
-And people on the edge of retirement, suddenly facing a different challenge: Who am I without my work?
Two very different seasons.
But the same core issue.
One feels like there’s no time.
The other feels like there’s too much time.
And in both cases, something important is missing: intentional joy.
Here’s what I’ve come to believe…
Joy isn’t something you stumble into.
It’s something you practice.
Hobbies become habits.
Habits become part of who you are.
Whether it’s working out, playing a sport, gardening, cooking, painting, or even just making time for a game night. These aren’t “extras.”
They are training.
You’re building what I like to call the “Muscle Memory of Joy.”
Because life isn’t all-or-nothing.
It’s not “busy now, happy later.”
It’s about learning how to access joy within whatever season you’re in.
Staying curious.
Trying new things.
Making yourself a priority, even if it’s just a few hours a week.
That’s not indulgent.
It’s essential.
Not just for today, but for who you’re becoming tomorrow.
If you’re feeling stuck in either season.
Too busy to breathe or unsure what’s next.
This is where I can help you.
Together we will:
Create space.
Rebuild identity.
And reconnect you with what actually brings YOU joy.
If this resonates with you, reply to this email or book a call with me here.
Have a great day!
-Jackie
