Life has a funny way of knowing exactly how and when to push your buttons. Don't get me wrong—there is so much beauty and happiness in the world, but sometimes, life hits you—hard. Sometimes it feels as though the bad outweighs the good. And it is okay to be sad, stressed, tired, or exhausted. Do not feel bad or whiny or awful for having feelings and expressing them. Let yourself feel your emotions fully. Let yourself be in a bit of a rut for awhile… you don’t see the rainbow without any rain. BUT, we don’t want to be upset for too long, so I have compiled a list of some things to do when you are a complete mess, you have had enough, and are in desperate need of a distraction. So, take a break and…
1. Take a shower/bath
I literally feel like a new person after a hot shower, and a warm bath (with some music or a book) is literally one of the most relaxing things you can do.
2. Listen to your favorite music/read a book
Both have the power to take you to another world, to make you see things differently. You can completely remove yourself from your current situation and focus on absolutely nothing except what you are listening to or reading. Probably two of my top favorite healers.
3. Start a new series
Just another form of art that takes you to another place. On Netflix, I recommend: Dexter, Breaking Bad, Bates Motel, New Girl, The Office, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Bob’s Burgers, Supernatural, Skins (U.K.,) American Horror Story (but just seasons 1 and 2.) On top of that, pretty much any Food Network or HGTV show makes me happy or at least peaks my interest.
4. Write/journal
Write a story or a play or a New Year’s resolutions. Write about what could be or should be or where you want to be. Write about your past experiences and what you hope for the future. Make lists—grocery lists, top places you would like to visit, your all-time favorite songs, etc. Journal about your life; write everything down—you are the only one who ever has to see it.
5. Stay away from your phone
Technology can be a good distraction, but it can also make you feel even worse. Put your phone away for awhile. Stop checking social media every 5 minutes—let’s be honest, do you ever read anything that worthwhile?
6. Take a nap
Sometimes all you need is to recharge. Close the curtains, put on your favorite pajamas, and curl up in your bed.
7. Go somewhere by yourself
Go shopping by yourself and buy that sweater you’ve been eyeing. Or, go to your favorite coffee shop and read the book you’ve always wanted to read but never made the time for. Sometimes, you are your best company.
8. Take up a new hobby
Learn a song on the piano, start scrapbooking, learn something new—the list is endless!
9. Do something for someone else/volunteer
Making other people happy makes you happy. Give back. Be a part of something bigger than yourself. You will feel better afterwards—100% of the time.
10. Sing in the car
What is it that makes music so much better when it is played in the car? (OK, besides hearing it live, but you understand…) Go on a drive, blast your favorite songs, and sing at the top of your lungs. Then, park somewhere and watch the sunset.
11. Get ice cream
Or a smoothie, or frozen yogurt, or an icee. AND MAKE IT A LARGE. Honestly, just treat yourself. Get something that will make you happy, and just don't worry about it.
12. Go outside
Go for a run (or a walk if you’re me.) Get some fresh air. Stop to smell the roses—literally.
13. Make a change
Dye your hair, cut your hair, paint your nails a new color, or try a new makeup product.
14. Bake something
Baking is time consuming and can take you into some strange alternate world where the only thing that matters is the batch of cookies you are making. The best part is that you can eat everything once you’re done. And it smells fantastic.
15. Talk to someone (tell them everything)
Call someone you trust or meet them for lunch and tell them everything. Let it all out. Get their advice, weigh your options and get their opinion. You may have just needed a new perspective.
16. Read positive quotes
You know how they say to smile to trick your brain into thinking you're happy? I kind of compare reading positive quotes to that. Read something happy to trick yourself into thinking you’re happy! It actually works!!
17. Take pictures
Take pictures of the sunrise or sunset. If you're from Iowa, take pictures of the corn (just kidding.) Pictures capture memories and moments and beauty and are things you can always look back on to remember or make you smile.
18. Spend time with your friends
Go out, stay in, paint your nails, watch a movie, laugh, cry, whatever.
19. Spend time with your mom
Ask for her advice. She has been through this (more than) once or twice.
20. Spend time with your grandma
Let her make you lunch and help her do the dishes afterwards. Ask her if she wants to bake something (I bet she'll say yes.)
21. Cuddle with your pet
I saved the best for last. Foolproof cure for anything and everything.
