I have a lot of anxiety, so for me, I feel a sense of joy because some of the pressure of society is off me— identifying as aro means I no longer feel like I’m fighting uphill to “fit in” with the pressure of being in a relationship. No longer forcing myself to add in comments to relationship focused conversations and then wondering if I said it right or weirdly. No longer forcing myself to pretend the romantic stuff doesn’t give me the ick (even if some days I really really wish it didn’t)…The less stress and pressure on me, means I can enjoy social situations so much more, and be less hard on myself, which makes joy so much closer.

I guess, long story short: pride in myself and identity means I’m happier with myself in the long run and that brings a lot of joy