Joy is the uplifting emotion that arises when we achieve something meaningful or encounter positive experiences. It combines the celebratory sense of exaltation, where we feel validated or accomplished, with the energetic increase of exhilaration. Together, these passions create the recognizable warmth and vibrancy of joy.

Exaltation in joy reflects the pride and satisfaction that come from reaching a goal or being recognized. For example, imagine winning a race after weeks of training. Exaltation is the moment you realize your hard work has paid off, and you feel a deep sense of worth and achievement. It’s about the acknowledgment of success and the fulfillment of knowing you’ve risen to the occasion.

Exhilaration in joy is the energetic spark that makes the moment feel alive. In the same example of winning a race, exhilaration is the rush of crossing the finish line, hearing the cheers, and feeling your heartbeat race—not from exertion but from the pure thrill of the moment. It’s what keeps joy dynamic and energetic, elevating it from mere satisfaction to an energizing experience.

Joy is more than a combination of these passions; it’s tied to our expectations and cultural understanding of what success or happiness means. The joy of winning a race might be rooted in personal validation, but it’s also shaped by the shared belief that achievement is worth celebrating. Similarly, the joy of reconnecting with an old friend after years apart isn’t just about something one does—it’s enriched by the context of the shared history and the rekindling of a meaningful bond.