Finding Multiple Streams of Joy in Academia and Beyond

Abstract

Black women in academia face constant micro-aggressions as documented in Navigating Micro-Aggressions Toward Women in Higher Education (Thomas, 2018). These assaults require them to develop salves to protect their psyches. It requires establishing boundaries for those who seek to disturb their joy. Finding joy in the midst of low-grade hostility requires commitment and creativity.

After 24 years in academia, I have found a formula for creating joy. At the center of this formula is prioritizing joy in simple things, such as routines, structure, and boundaries. My journey to joy involves multiple streams, including building strong connections in the workplace with colleagues and students, developing mindfulness practices, embracing physical activity as a form of stress relief, and using food as medicine.

In this chapter, I discuss how my joy has been blocked or challenged in academic settings. I also highlight how my perspective and contributions as a Black woman have been overlooked and devalued. Next, I describe my multiple streams for finding joy, beginning with an explanation of the importance of each of the streams for holistic well-being. This is followed by a description of the ways that I utilize each stream, including how I integrate them into my courses. Finally, I discuss how I am teaching and mentoring future generations to embrace finding joy in academic settings and beyond.