How to Stay Joyful During Crisis: Jewish Wisdom for Finding Hope in Difficult Times

“When Adar enters, we increase in joy,” say our sages. In times of uncertainty, war, anxiety, and despair, how is it possible to be joyful?

In Judaism, joy is a central value expressed in many forms and occasions. Holidays like Sukkot, Passover, and Shavuot are celebrated with great happiness. A Jewish wedding is a joyous event filled with dancing and blessings. On Shabbat, sadness is even prohibited, as this day is considered a taste of the World to Come. In prayer, we are constantly reminded to thank G-d for the good in our lives.

In Jewish thought, joy doesn't come from material things but from spiritual values, family, community, and a culture that views joy as a mitzvah (commandment). The Mishnah in Tractate Taanit says, “When the month of Av enters, we diminish joy”- but not eliminate it. As Rabbi Nachman of Breslov famously taught: “It is a great mitzvah to always be happy.”

Still, in times of crisis, joy can feel out of reach. Since October 7, thousands have been displaced, hundreds of new widows and orphans have entered the circle of bereavement, and the war continues with hostages still being held by Hamas. How can one truly rejoice?

Following are 5 tips to help you maintain joy and optimism, even during difficult times.

1. Focus on the Good

In times of crisis, we naturally dwell on the hardships. Fortunately, there are ways to maintain an optimistic perspective, even when things are tough. Positive thinking helps us cope more effectively.

Start by identifying and appreciating the good in your life, even amidst difficulty. Happiness can be found in simple, everyday moments. We begin the day with the prayer Modeh Ani, thanking G-d for His constant kindness. By focusing on blessings, we train ourselves to see challenges as opportunities for growth.

When we focus on the good, we shift our perception of reality and open our awareness to new possibilities instead of remaining stuck in what’s going wrong. This allows us to feel moments of joy, even in hard times.

2. Make Time for Yourself

During crises, self-care often gets pushed aside. It's essential to prioritize time for yourself- your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Rabbi Nachman called hitbodedut (personal prayer or quiet time with G-d) “the highest practice.” Even if you don’t practice hitbodedut, taking time alone is not a luxury- it’s a necessity. It can be reading a book, exercising, praying, walking in nature, or simply sitting quietly and reflecting.

Whatever activity brings you peace and calm, make space for it. It will replenish your inner strength and help you face challenges with a clearer mind and a lighter heart.

3. Focus on What You Can Control

The Talmud (Berachot 33b) teaches: “Everything is in the hands of Heaven except the fear of Heaven.” We can’t control most events, but we can control our response, our character, and our perspective.

Instead of exhausting ourselves trying to fix what’s beyond our power, we should focus on the areas we can influence- our choices, our reactions, our prayers, and our mindset. Even if things feel overwhelming, this shift in focus can restore a sense of agency and hope.

4. Live in the Present

Let go of worry and fully engage with the present moment. Be conscious of what you are doing now, not what happened yesterday or what might happen tomorrow. Worrying about the future often leads to anxiety and sadness.

As Proverbs teaches, “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” (Proverbs 27:1) And in Psalms: “Cast your burden on G-d and He will sustain you” (Psalms 55:23). Instead of trying to control the future, trust that G-d is managing the world, and focus on today.

5. Help Others

In Judaism, gemilut chasadim (acts of kindness) is an important mitzvah. Helping others, whether through charity, visiting the sick, or supporting those in need, brings tremendous joy not just to the receiver but to the giver as well.

Since the war began, acts of kindness and solidarity have filled the world. The Mishnah says the world stands on “Torah, service, and acts of lovingkindness.” Giving in times of crisis can bring meaning and restore a sense of purpose and joy.

Joy is our natural state and we can rediscover and strengthen that joy even in the hardest moments. When we focus on the positive, care for ourselves and others, and accept reality as it is, we can live with joy, even in times of crisis.