The Vulnerability of Joy: Why We Fear It and How Gratitude Can Unlock It

Written By Kimberly Knull, RPsych

If you feel like you’re just going through the motions when writing down what you’re grateful for and not TRULY feeling the joy in your body, this episode is for you. 

In this episode of the Therapy Explained Podcast, I explore the profound relationship between gratitude and joy, drawing inspiration from Canadian Thanksgiving.

You’ll get to hear about one of our family Thanksgiving traditions (that you can use any time of the year). Taking the time for family discussions can lead to more joy.

You'll also hear more about Brené Brown's research, highlighting the benefits of a mindful gratitude practice, such as saying 'thank you,' writing notes, and acknowledging our everyday blessings.

If you've ever felt vulnerable in allowing yourself to feel happiness — you're not alone. Brené calls this 'foreboding joy' — which is like dress rehearsing tragedy and loss so that if it happens, we don't feel as sad,

However, embracing gratitude can help manage the vulnerability of joyful moments, boost resilience, and enhance overall happiness.

In this episode of the Therapy Explained podcast, you’ll hear:

  • Why you can’t have joy without gratitude

  • How your brain might be sabotaging your excitement and celebrations

  • How gratitude fuels resilience

  • Practical tips for making gratitude a regular part of your day

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Therapy Explained Podcast

00:25 The Connection Between Gratitude and Joy

01:17 Thanksgiving Reflections and Gratitude Practice

03:03 Everyday Moments of Gratitude

05:29 The Power of Positive Reinforcement

07:04 Formalizing a Gratitude Practice

07:57 Joy and Gratitude as a Spiritual Practice

08:44 Understanding Joy vs. Happiness

09:44 The Power of a Gratitude Practice

10:34 Practical Gratitude Exercises

12:52 The Vulnerability of Joy

14:54 Leaning into Joy and Gratitude

17:05 Conclusion and Invitation to Connect

Do you find it challenging to fully feel joy? Therapy can help. Explore what it’s like to work privately with a licensed psychologist —> Explore therapy.

Kimberly Knull, RPsych

Kimberly Knull is a Registered Psychologist, motivational speaker and trained by Brené Brown as a Dare to Lead™ and Daring Way™ facilitator. She’s the Co-Founder of Momentum Walk-In Counselling Society, recognized as one of Avenue magazine’s Top 40 Under 40, and dabbled as a local celebrity as CBC AM Radio’s parenting columnist. Her favorite pastimes include whipping up a yummy cheese souffle, hanging with friends, riding her horses or playing the piano. She lives with her husband and two girls in Edmonton, Alberta, but has big dreams of moving to the country.

https://www.kimberlyknull.com
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