Skyros Blog
Finding Joy Again: When the Old Ways No Longer Work
What happens when the things that once lit you up don’t quite land the same anymore?
That morning yoga class, your weekly painting session, the book club, the beach walks, they used to be your happy places. But lately? They feel flat. Forced. Like going through the motions.
It can feel unsettling, even a bit scary, when joy slips quietly a little further out of reach. You might wonder, “What’s wrong with me?” or “Why isn’t this working anymore?” But the truth is, nothing is wrong with you. Change is part of being human.
We grow. We shift. We evolve. And sometimes, we outgrow the ways we used to feel good.
So, what next?
Maybe the answer isn’t in forcing the old ways to work again, but in gently exploring what your heart needs now. What if the stuckness isn’t a problem to fix, but a signpost pointing you somewhere new?
At Skyros, we hear this often. Guests arrive saying they’ve lost their spark. They feel tired, directionless, or just not like themselves. But somewhere between the sea swims, shared meals, yoga, laughter, late-night talks and creative workshops, they start to feel something shift.
It’s not about pretending everything is fine. It’s about giving yourself space to feel, breathe, and gently rediscover the things that do light you up. Even if it’s something unexpected.
A mosaic class that makes you lose track of time. A conversation over breakfast that reminds you who you are [or how funny you are]. A sunset that feels like it was painted just for you.
So, if you’ve tried everything and nothing’s landing... maybe it’s time to stop trying so hard. Maybe it’s time to step away from the noise and give yourself the gift of gentle discovery.
Five Ways to Start Getting Your Mojo Back
- Try something new — even if it’s small
Joy often hides in the unfamiliar. You don’t need a big life change, just a tiny spark. Whether it’s joining a creative writing class, singing around a campfire, or learning something you’ve never done before, newness can bring unexpected light.
- Give yourself space, not pressure
You don’t need to force joy. You need room to remember it. That might mean taking a break from productivity, giving yourself permission to rest, or simply letting a moment be quiet.
- Find your people
Surround yourself with those who make you feel more like you. Being with others who are kind, open, and exploring the same questions you are can be a balm for the spirit.
- Have a look at your life
Is something stealing your joy and energy? Sometimes the issue isn’t finding something new, but addressing something that’s already happening. It might be time for a difficult but important shift.
- Go somewhere that lets you breathe
A change of scenery can change everything. Being in nature, away from routines, surrounded by beauty, can create the space for something new to grow.
Skyros Holidays opens its doors in just a few weeks, offering retreats on a Greek island that blend creativity, wellbeing and connection in the most natural way. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, healing, laughter or simply a fresh start, we’re here to welcome you.
Because joy isn’t lost. It just might be waiting for you somewhere new.
Ready to stop going through the motions?
Come swim, sing, write, laugh, and reconnect with what matters.
Find your retreat – skyros.com/calendar/
Comments
I had the privilege of working at both Atsitsa centre and Skyros Centre in the village sometimes for six months at a time, the memories are still alive in me.
I would also like to suggest another course participants could take home with them, even going to facilitate them themselves after ie The Peace Education Programme.
Regardless of this suggestion, the courses Skyros Holidays offers at both Centre, in stunning settings, are a doorway to seeing life fresh and hopeful again.