We all have those days, weeks, or months where we feel like we just can't catch a break. Nothing seems to be going your way, and in those times, it's hard to keep your positivity. Here are five simple steps you can take to make a happier you!
1) Wake up every morning believing that today is going to be a great day.
Starting your day off on a positive note makes it much easier to stay positive throughout the day, especially the long and tiring ones. Whether it's brewing a fresh cup of coffee or taking a nice, hot shower, do something that will put you in a happy mood to jump start your day.
2) If it isn't going to matter in five years, don't spend more than five minutes worrying about it.
I saw this statement circulating Facebook, and it cannot be more true. Someone didn't like your outfit? As long as you like it, that's what matters. You bombed a test you studied all weekend for? I doubt you'll remember your score in a year from now, let alone five. These little things might seem like the end of the world in the moment, but trust me, they aren't.
3) For every negative thought you have about yourself, think of five positive ones.
You are your own worst enemy, therefore, you are harder on yourself than anyone else is. Every time you think or say something negative about yourself, list five positive qualities to boost your self-esteem. Your hair is completely flat today, but your make-up looks fabulous and you're always the life of the party, so throw your hair up in an elastic and rock that ponytail.
4) Every time you're feeling down on your luck, list five things you're thankful for.
If you have clothes, a roof over your head, a warm place to sleep at night, and a phone/computer, you are luckier than you may be feeling in the moment. Remember that there is a huge portion of the world that doesn't have half of what you do, and that is certainly something to be grateful for!
5) Bring joy to others, because it will bring joy to you, too!
Giving others, whether they're friends or perfect strangers, genuine compliments and simply being kind takes less than ten seconds. It can completely turn his or her entire day around. That girl in your math class is wearing a cute dress? Tell her. Someone makes eye contact with you in a parking lot or grocery store? Smile at them. Having the ability to make someone's day is so powerful, yet it is something we don't take advantage of. Pay it forward and reap the rewards.
It's that simple.
“We tend to forget that happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have.” -Frederick Keonig
