Some nights everything may feel like it’s failing apart. It’s on these nights, more than ever, you have to use every ounce of your being to try to stay positive.

I’ve had a considerably good life, but financial struggles, the death of my father, a bout of depression and being cheated on by the love of my life have helped me learn some lessons on how to be strong.

When life knocks you down, and it feels like you can’t go on a minute longer, just try to find the positive in every day; it helps.

1. Focus on the little things.

Remember at lunch when your significant other got some mustard on their upper lip, and you couldn’t help but giggle? Focus on that.

Remember the way your dog was so excited to see you when you got home? Focus on that.

Try to pick out the positive things in your day – no matter how little it is.

2. Try to laugh.

It may not be easy, but try to find at least one thing to laugh at each day. Watch a comedy or a sit-com. Maybe try watching a goofy YouTube video like this one.

3. Make time for friends.

Yes, you’re stressed or sad or both, but friends help. Even if they don’t have the slightest clue about what’s happening. Time with people you care about (and people who care about you) helps – a lot.

4. Cuddle your pet.

Grab your dog or cat or hamster or chinchilla (I think you get the point), and just cuddle away. Cuddling helps to relieve stress and is proven to improve your mood! Yay for science.

(P.S. a S/O works too, but I thinkanimals are better listeners and cuddlers.)

5. Talk about it.

Talk to someone, anyone. Don’t hold it in. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or support. Don’t struggle alone. People care. People want to help. I promise.

I know it may be hard right now, and I know not all of these will work for you, but try to keep your head up and try, try, try to focus on the positive every day. It may take time, heck it may take a lot of time, but it’ll get better. I promise.