After many years of living and travelling extensively throughout Australia and New Zealand, the ‘world’s first joyologist’, Pat Armitstead, now calls Scarborough home.
Initially a Registered Nurse, then in advertising before becoming an author, speaker and trainer, Pat has also travelled to Russia with Patch Adams, the famous Clown Doctor. She is known for using the science of Positive Psychology and humour to help people become happier both at work and as individuals.
Pat has written two books, Humour Works and Antizac (A Joyful Prescription for the Unhappiness Epidemic) and co-authored six other titles. Pat said she was looking forward to finishing her third book on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula.
“I want my next book to be a bestseller, especially at this time in history, to shift people’s perspective and help them lighten up and enjoy life despite whatever they may personally be going through,” she said.
“I didn’t learn about joy by studying joy. I learnt about joy by experiencing shame, grief and embarrassment. When life was tough, rather than sink into a pit of despair, I chose another path. I chose to use my innate gifts of humour, creativity and compassion to lift the spirits of others, and that in turn, raised my spirits.
“I want to share my gifts and learnings with others so they too may have more joy in their lives.”
Four Everyday Habits for More Joy
As an example, Pat said there were four simple but powerful things people could do every day.
“Choose your attitude – commit to choosing how you want to feel rather than reacting,” she said.
“Be in the moment – pay attention to the now rather than worrying about yesterday or tomorrow.
“Generate fun – find time to enjoy things that amuse you, whether they be TV shows, memes, jokes or cat videos.
“Make people’s day – it makes your own worries disappear.”
Pat said she always has three cards in her purse to give away as ‘Glad Mail’ to brighten the day of people who she thinks need to be recognised or appreciated.
And if you see Pat about the place, be sure to say, ‘Hi’! It will make the day for both of you.
Read more stories from our Redcliffe Guide print magazine here:
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- Reddy Roundup: Updates from the Community
- My Preloved Wardrobe Becomes a Clontarf Hideaway
- Podcast Review: Podcast Review: Behind the B@stards
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- Organic Gardening in July
- Garden Show Plants Seeds for Family Fun
- Brad’s Business Tips
- Wonderland Awaits at the Library These School Holidays
- Blokes Book Club: Good Reads and Great Chats
- New Musical Comedy Cruises into Redcliffe
- Local Women’s Association Seeking Members
- A sad end to an eventful life
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- Irene Brings Hope to the Homeless
- Indigenous Art Workshop For NAIDOC Week
- Street Feast Returns to Redcliffe
- Acclaimed Tribute Rock Show Coming to Redcliffe
