Find a place inside where there’s joy, and the joy will burn out the pain.
– Joseph Campbell

Two Australian researchers from the University of Sydney, Olivia Karaolis and Cathy Little, set out to study early childhood educators’ feelings about the challenges in their work, but also what was positive. As they put it:

“The representation in the media seemed incomplete, too focused on the problems that beleaguered the sector rather than understanding the deeper issues at stake. We wanted to focus on what was also good, sustaining and valued in and by the profession. One of the emergent key findings, despite all the current challenges, was surprising. It was joy!”

A description of their study was published in an article that “discusses the notion of joy articulated by early childhood educators, its presence in early childhood programs and how it represents a way forward for the recognition and value of the profession in our society.”

An Exchange Reflections, “Finding Joy in Our Work,” based on an article by Luis Hernandez, was designed spark discussions about the complexities of fully experiencing joy. Hernandez writes, “We find joy in the silliest interactions or unexpected hugs and smiles. Joy is sharing with co-workers the successes of the day. Joy is resolving difficult relationships and challenging moments. Joy is earned through difficult steps. Joy is hard work.”

One more resource about joy is available Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 11 am Eastern US time when the World Forum Foundation’s WoFo Global Café invites everyone to join a free online conversation, Building Joyful Organizations: Where Art Meets Strategy.