We all have bad days. Whether it’s the loss of a job or the fact that you spilled coffee all over your new shirt, down days are bound to come, perhaps even more so during the holidays. It’s up to you to know how to respond so they don’t get the best of you and threaten how you feel about yourself or others. Here are a few tips for cheering yourself up when the clouds come rolling in:
Assess The Situation
Take an inventory of what’s been going on in your life recently. Try to pinpoint some of the factors that have led you to feel this way. Write them down. Understanding possible triggers and identifying causes can help you rise above them.
Reach Out
Isolation keeps you a prisoner in your own mess. We’re not meant to do life alone. The truth you need to remember is that there are people in your life who love you and want to be an encouragement and comfort to you. Call a mentor, a best friend or a family member that you trust. Consider finding a counselor if your feelings are more long lasting. Fight the temptation to isolate with all your might.
Silence the Lies
The lies we hear about ourselves are always louder when we’re feeling alone, vulnerable or sad. It’s deceptively comforting to sit and dwell in them. Refuse to let your mind rant with self-doubts, worries, anxieties and self-criticism. Cur them off at the first sign.
Fill Your Mind With True Things
Create an arsenal of positive affirmations. Write them down and repeat them to yourself throughout the day. Additionally, take the time to write a list of things you are grateful for to get your mind on focused on what you do have instead of what you don’t.
Get Moving
Get outside your four walls. Go for a walk or a jog. Or a walk-jog! Go to a farmers market and buy yourself some fresh flowers. Invite someone to coffee. Drink in the sunshine; let the rain fall upon your head or the wind brush against your face. When we’re connected to nature we’re far more aware of beauty around us as well as within us.
What are some things that help you rise above your blue days?
Image via Shannon Lee Miller
Ashley December 9, 2013
Huh! What a timely read.
For me, something I’ve learned from being is coach is to counter every negative thought with a four positive ones. It literally works to rewire the brain and any limited beliefs. Doing this has been so helpful when there are cloudy days like today.
And allowance. Giving myself the allowance to have an off day while still doing the best to keep moving forward is pretty helpful too.
Thanks for a great article!
Allie Marie Smith December 8, 2013
So glad it was helpful to you Megan!
Krystal December 6, 2013
Thank you for the advice. I have my bad days and when they come they don’t seem to look up. Your advice will be taken into consideration since majority of the time my bad days come when I am alone.
Megan @ Lush to Blush December 3, 2013
This is just what I needed! I went through SO much today, but it will all be ok. I just need to stay positive. Thanks!
xo Megan, LushtoBlush.com