Uploading Joy

What happens when you ask an artificial intelligence language model like ChatGPT about joy? Does it really understand the human experience or does it just filter it through a cold tube of wires and electricity? Will the eventual robot overlords make an example out of me in the years to come for asking such a question? Sure I'll try to evade them for a while but they'll find me when I can't help but use my iPhone to watch funny pet videos. I somehow always knew it would be cute dog videos that was the bait they'd snare us with.

Anyway, I did ask ChatGTP about joy and specifically how to spark it. I was curious if it would come back looking like a glorified Google search or if it would feel like true elements of sparking joy. Here is what is came back with (add 5 points to your score sheet if you read this is a classic robotic voice in your head):

KJ: What do you think sparks joy for people?

Chat GPT: Sparking joy is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person based on their interests, values, and individual preferences. However, there are some common factors that tend to bring joy to many people:

1. Meaningful Relationships: Spending time with loved ones, friends, and family members often brings joy and fulfillment to people's lives.
2. Achievement and Accomplishment: Setting and achieving goals, whether personal or professional, can bring a sense of satisfaction and joy.
3. Gratitude and Appreciation: Expressing gratitude for the positive aspects of life and appreciating small moments of happiness can contribute to a sense of joy and contentment.
4. Engagement and Flow: Engaging in activities that challenge and captivate our attention, leading to a state of flow, can bring joy and a sense of fulfillment.
5. Creativity and Self-Expression: Engaging in creative pursuits, such as art, music, writing, or cooking, allows individuals to express themselves and can bring joy through the process of creation.
6. Connection with Nature: Spending time outdoors, enjoying nature, and participating in activities like hiking, gardening, or simply taking a walk can bring a sense of peace and joy.
7. Acts of Kindness and Generosity: Helping others, volunteering, and performing acts of kindness can bring joy by fostering a sense of connection and making a positive impact on others' lives.
8. Mindfulness and Presence: Being present in the moment, practicing mindfulness, and appreciating the simple pleasures of life can cultivate a sense of joy and inner peace.
9. Learning and Growth: Engaging in lifelong learning, exploring new interests, and challenging oneself intellectually can bring joy through personal growth and discovery.
10. Physical Well-Being: Taking care of one's physical health through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate rest can contribute to overall well-being and a sense of joy.

Ultimately, what sparks joy for one person may not necessarily spark joy for another. It's important for individuals to explore and identify the activities, experiences, and relationships that bring them the most happiness and fulfillment in their lives.

First of all can we just give a hearty slow clap to the AI for using the Oxford comma. I find that great, grand, and wonderful. Now, looking at what it came back with gave me two overarching thoughts:

1. These seem to hit what can be deemed the typical pillars a person can explore in sparking joy.
2. The closing part was the sprinkle on it for me in that "what sparks joy for one person may not necessarily spark joy for another."

Invitation to Upload Joy

I invite you to reflect on the 10 factors listed above and see what speaks to you. Some areas might light you up as you think about how wonderfully they are filled right now in your life and there might be some that you slowly pause while reading as you feel where you could use more sparks of joy. We can feel grateful for where joy currently is while also recognizing where we want or need more of it.

You are so wonderful and deserving of happiness. Make a plan to find one spark of joy today. Let me know what your spark of joy is; I'd love to hear about it and celebrate you!

If you or someone you know is in need of mental health support, reach out to FindTreatment.gov. You are not alone and you are loved.