woman holding wildflowers in the sunshine

Joy Productivity Tool

August 13, 20252 min read

For many women, joy is something you allow yourself after the work is done.
After the emails are answered.
After the laundry is folded.
After the deadlines are met.

We treat joy like dessert—something to be earned only after we’ve “been good” and done it all.

But here’s what I’ve learned through coaching and neuroscience research:
Joy isn’t a reward for productivity.
Joy is what fuels productivity.


The Science Behind It

When we experience positive emotions—like joy, gratitude, amusement, or inspiration—our brains literally work better.

Neuroscience shows that positive emotion:

  • Widens your perspective so you can see more creative solutions.

  • Boosts dopamine and serotonin, chemicals that help your brain process information faster and more accurately.

  • Increases resilience, so you bounce back quicker from challenges.

  • Builds motivation, making it easier to start and finish tasks.

This means joy isn’t frivolous. It’s functional.


Mental Fitness in Action

In Positive Intelligence (PQ) mental fitness training, we teach that your brain has two operating zones:

  • Saboteur Mode – fueled by stress, pressure, and self-criticism.

  • Sage Mode – fueled by empathy, curiosity, creativity, and yes—joy.

When you intentionally create moments of joy, you’re switching your brain into Sage Mode, which naturally makes you more effective.


How to Put Joy First

Here’s your challenge this week:

  1. Identify one small thing that sparks joy—listening to a favorite song, stepping outside for fresh air, calling a friend.

  2. Do it before you dive into your to-do list.

  3. Notice how your energy, focus, and mood shift.

It’s not about ignoring responsibilities. It’s about fueling yourself so you can handle them with more ease and creativity.


"Happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present."
Jim Rohn


The Bottom Line:
Joy is not a luxury item. It’s an essential tool in your productivity toolkit.
And when you stop waiting to feel it, you might find that the work you were avoiding suddenly feels lighter—and gets done faster.


Ready to go deeper?
Want to learn how to build a joyful rhythm that actually works for your life?
Let’s talk. Book your free discovery session here.

ECO certified coach and Mental Fitness Trainer. Brenda believes you already have everything inside you to become all you are created to be. With her clients she helps tame the inner critic, reframe limiting beliefs so you reach your goals with joy and confidence.

Brenda Bauer

ECO certified coach and Mental Fitness Trainer. Brenda believes you already have everything inside you to become all you are created to be. With her clients she helps tame the inner critic, reframe limiting beliefs so you reach your goals with joy and confidence.

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