Happiness vs. Joy from a Christian PQ Coach
What is the difference between happiness and joy? Is it just semantics or a powerful insight into our emotional and spiritual well-being? As I reflect both on Positive Intelligence (PQ) from a faith-based perspective, I see how these two emotions help us navigate life and call us to more deeply consider what truly matters.
Happiness: The Fleeting High
Happiness is often driven by external factors & circumstances. It arises when external results align with our expectations whether it be a successful project, a new job, or a compliment from someone we respect.
Within the PQ framework, this feeling can sometimes be fueled by our Saboteurs and their effect on our behaviors. Take the Avoider (my strongest Saboteur), for example, who tells us happiness may come from avoiding hard conversations, or unpleasant tasks. The Avoider convinces us that as long as things feel easy or conflict-free, we’re “happy” but this is not sustainable. Our Happiness in this context becomes fragile, as it depends on temporary avoidance rather than lasting fulfillment.
From a faith-based perspective, this avoidance can also hinder the deeper work of growth and connection to purpose. Scripture often encourages us to face challenges head-on as trials lead to perseverance and ultimately joy. But the Avoider whispers, “Just leave it and it will work itself out,” denying us the courage to truly face and work through difficulties to unlock lasting joy.
Joy: The Deep Well
Joy, on the other hand, is rooted in something far more profound as it is rooted in our values, our sense of purpose, and our interconnectedness. PQ teaches that by living in your Sage powers (Empathy, Explore, Innovate, Navigate, and Activate), you can tap into a steady, unshakable stream of joy no matter the external situation. In Sage, we see that all events, even & especially challenges, hold gifts and opportunities for growth. This perspective allows joy to flourish even in hardship.
As a Christian, this aligns deeply with the concept of spiritual joy as a fruit of the soul rather than the body. Scriptures often speak of joy as something rooted in divine connection: “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). This joy isn’t tied to worldly successes but stems from a deep communion with our Creator. It’s a steady flame burning inside of us rather than a flickering light held captive by the winds of the moment.
Intersection of PQ and Faith
Positive Intelligence builds a framework to strengthen our ability to tap into joy by disarming our strongest Saboteurs which typically bring with them stuff like guilt, shame, and fear. PQ Reps provide a way to quiet them while fostering the mental fitness to connect with our Sage. In faith, practices like contemplation, gratitude, and worship align us to be present with God, mirroring PQ's call to shift from judging ourselves to accepting and loving ourselves.
The Sage power of Navigate particularly mirrors the practice of seeking purpose through divine wisdom. When you do a PQ Gym session and consult your Wiser Elder Self, it feels much like prayerfully asking, “What path aligns with my God-given purpose?” When we align our actions with something bigger than ourselves, we find joy naturally flowing, even in seasons of difficulty.
Actionable Steps to Cultivate Joy (Beyond Happiness)
Daily PQ Reps for Grounding: Spend two minutes breathing, focusing, or engaging in PQ Reps to quiet your Saboteurs and connect to your Sage perspective. Ask yourself, “How can I see this challenge as a gift today?”
Faithful Connection: Dedicate time daily to reflect on spiritual truths, whether through prayer, scripture reading, or meditative practices rooted in your faith tradition. Let the eternal anchor you to joy.
Celebrate Imperfections as Lessons: Both PQ and faith teach the beauty of imperfection. Where PQ calls us to view setbacks as growth opportunities, faith reminds us that “His power is made perfect in weakness.” Celebrate progress and growth over perfection.
Serve Others: Joy is magnified when shared and it is absolutely contagious. Much like the Sage power of Empathy encourages connection, faith underscores selflessness as a conduit for joy. Service transforms challenges into opportunities for connection and gratitude.
Happiness fades but joy endures. It asks us to look beyond ourselves, to transcend the Saboteur-driven pull of shallow validation, and instead anchor into Sage-level perspective and spiritual truth. Whether through PQ or faith, joy happens more often when we lean into purpose, celebrate growth, and trust in the deeper design of our journey.
If you're ready to move beyond fleeting happiness and tap into the unshakable joy rooted in purpose and wisdom, I'd love to support you on that journey. Through Positive Intelligence coaching, we work to silence Saboteurs like the Avoider and build the mental fitness to live in your Sage powers. Together, we can align your life with the deeper values and calling that matter most.
Curious about how this could look for you? Let’s connect for a complimentary coaching session to explore what lasting joy and freedom could mean in your life.
