Joy is one of the fundamental virtues in our relationships with others. We all need to see joyful faces around us. All religions and the writings of nearly all sages explain that the origin of joy lies in giving to others. Joy, therefore, is compatible with painful circumstances, difficulties, and adversities, and, of course, with work.

Smile because God smiles, smile because my flaws make me funny, smile because others need it. These are the three smiles that should characterize a Christian professional.

The second smile is the one I wear on my own face, both in my personal and professional life. Smiling is an act of humility; it means accepting myself and my way of being, remaining where I am in holy peace. Without taking myself too seriously, because “seriousness is not a virtue.” Perhaps it’s heresy to say that seriousness is a vice, but at least it’s an intelligent heresy. There is indeed a natural tendency (a kind of decline) to take oneself seriously, because it’s the easiest attitude to live by. Solemnity is characteristic of people who don’t want to make an effort; on the other hand, a hearty laugh demands enthusiasm. It’s easy to be sad, and it’s difficult to be lighthearted. Satan fell because of the force of gravity” (Chesterton).

The third smile is a consequence of the previous two. It is the smile with which I welcome others, especially those with whom I live and work, showing them affection and without dwelling too much on possible mistakes or disagreements. With a joyful expression, Saint Teresa of Calcutta surprised the audience in 1979 at her Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech by making this suggestion: “Smile at one another, dedicate time to be with your families. Smile at each other.”

The passion opposed to joy is sadness, caused by not possessing the beloved. If the origin of joy is love, then the origin of sadness is selfishness. Saint Thomas Aquinas points out that sadness “has its origin in the disordered love of oneself, which is not a special vice, but rather the common root of all vices.” It is not, therefore, pain or difficulties that oppose joy, but the sadness that can arise from a lack of faith and hope in the face of such situations. For this reason, sadness is seen as a sickness of the soul, which can stem from a physiological or a moral cause. Joy, therefore, is compatible with painful circumstances, difficulties, and adversities.

And why is joy important in our professional work?

Here are some reasons:

• Because we work much better in a cheerful environment. We dedicate many hours to work, and if there’s no joy, work becomes a burden.
• Because joy fosters confidence
• Because joy motivates, it lifts the spirits.
• Because joy reveals what’s inside you.

And how can we live it in our professional work?

Some recommendations for being cheerful and spreading our joy at work :

• Daily gratitude. Writing down three things you are grateful for each day changes your mental approach.
• Selfless service. Helping others brings deep and lasting joy.
• Connecting with nature. Getting outdoors, walking, contemplating—connects you with life. Take advantage of the weekend to recharge your batteries and return on Monday with renewed professional enthusiasm.
• Spirituality or meditation. Returning to the center, finding inner silence.
• Authentic relationships with others. Meaningful conversations, affection, community.

Joy is not a reward, it’s a journey. It’s not about seeking it as an end in itself, but about living in such a way that it becomes its natural consequence. When we cultivate the virtue of joy, we not only transform ourselves, but we also become sources of light for others.

In a world that is often dark, bringing joy is an act of rebellion and hope. It’s affirming that life has meaning, that good is possible, and that, despite everything, it’s worth smiling… even first thing Monday morning!