214: July Joy Series: Pain, Suffering, and Happiness in Our Relationships with Ourselves and Others

214: July Joy Series: Pain, Suffering, and Happiness in Our Relationships with Ourselves and Others

Author: Lorrie Mickelson, Habits & Self Care July 25, 2026 Duration: 16:54

As we begin to wrap up our July Joy Series on the Habit Thrive Podcast, this week's conversation explores one of the most powerful ideas we've discussed all month:


Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.


Life will always include disappointment, conflict, grief, frustration, and heartache. Those moments are part of being human.


But what we do after the pain—that story we tell ourselves, the replaying, the overthinking, the defensiveness—is often where suffering begins.


In this episode, we explore how our relationships can become both our greatest source of joy and our greatest opportunity for growth. Every interaction gives us a chance to pause, become more aware of our thoughts, and intentionally choose a response that aligns with the person we're becoming.


You'll also hear how this week's conversation connects with last week's episode on rejoicing in the joy of others, why social media can actually become a practice ground for cultivating joy, and how something as ordinary as road rage can teach us about resilience.


In this episode, you'll discover:

  • Why pain and suffering are not the same thing.
  • How our thoughts often create more suffering than the original experience.
  • The importance of learning to pause before reacting.
  • Why relationships are one of life's greatest "training grounds" for emotional resilience.
  • How awareness is a sign of growth—even if you don't get it right in the moment.
  • How difficult seasons can expand our appreciation for joy.


So, the next time you experience frustration, hurt, or disappointment, pause before adding a story to the moment. Simply notice what's happening. Ask yourself:


"Am I experiencing pain… or am I creating suffering?"


That small moment of awareness may be the first step toward greater peace, resilience, and joy.


xoxo

Lorrie


In this episode:

The How of Happiness by Sonja Lyubomirsky


Loving the show? Let’s connect! Find me:

Facebook: Women's Wellness Community: For women wanting to rock their “Me Now” Years

Instagram: @Habitguru365

Website: lorriemickelson.com

MemberVault: lorriemickelson.vipmembervault.com

Power & Purpose Daily Motivations: A Year of Coming Home to Yourself: Find it here


Habits, Mindfulness Routines & Self Care For Women 50 & Beyond

Loving the show? Let’s connect! Find me:

Facebook: Women's Wellness Community: For women wanting to rock their “Me Now” Years

Instagram: @Habitguru365

Website: lorriemickelson.com

MemberVault: lorriemickelson.vipmembervault.com


Habits, Mindfulness Routines & Self Care For Women 50 & Beyond


Navigating the years after fifty brings a unique blend of freedom and uncertainty. The Habit Thrive Podcast ~ Self Care Habits, Mindfulness & Wellness Routines for Women 50 & Beyond is a companion for that journey, hosted by Lorrie Mickelson. This isn't about drastic overhauls but the steady, impactful habits that fit into a life already rich with experience. Lorrie focuses on practical, sustainable self-care that acknowledges the physical and emotional shifts of this chapter. You'll hear conversations that feel like a chat with a knowledgeable friend, exploring how small, consistent actions in fitness, mindfulness, and daily routines can lead to feeling stronger, sleeping more soundly, and approaching each day with renewed energy instead of overwhelm. This podcast digs into the real how-to, from establishing grounding morning rituals to winding down effectively at night, all tailored for the realities and opportunities of life after fifty. It’s a resource for building resilience and vitality through manageable steps, making the most of this vibrant and potentially transformative time. Tune in for honest discussions and actionable ideas that help you thrive in your own definition of wellness.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Habit Thrive Podcast ~ Self Care Habits, Mindfulness & Wellness Routines for Women 50 & Beyond
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