Every once in a while, we all have bad days. Maybe the weather is awful and you're stuck in traffic. Maybe you completely bombed that interview. Maybe your friends let you down. Maybe you're fighting with someone and it won't leave your mind. Maybe people, in general, are annoying you. Maybe you just got some terrible news. Whatever the reason is, it's one of those days when everything seems to go wrong.
These days, it feels like the world is out to get you and there's nothing you can do to change it. Life sucks. The situation feels like it's out of your control, and a lot of the times, it probably is. But, one thing I have learned with time is that there is always something within your control that you can do to brighten up your day. Maybe you cannot fix the problem or get an immediate apology from whoever is annoying you, but there are little things that you can do to feel better.
1. Write down your feelings
Before you are ready to open up to anyone, let your feelings out by writing them down. Keeping a diary or a journal is so helpful. It helps you put your thoughts into words, clarify any doubts, and release your emotions. Anytime you feel overwhelmed or unable to sleep and cannot vocally express yourself, pull out paper or a phone, and start jotting down everything. Once you begin, you won't be able to stop and it'll lift a huge weight off your shoulders!
2. Talk to someone
Don't keep your pain and sadness buried inside. Share your feelings with a friend or family member. It might not bring about a solution, but just the fact that someone is willing to listen to you and sympathize with you makes you feel 10% better.
3. Wear a smile on your face
Even when all you want to do is cry, wearing a smile on your face can really turn your day around. Like they say, fake it until you make it. If you have to fake a smile, then so be it. People are more likely to approach a friendly face. Good things are more likely to happen when you don't look like you are about to fall apart. When you choose to put on a smile, you make a decision at that moment to exude positivity into the world. The world will likely return that favor back to you.
4. Watch bloopers of your favorite TV show
When I'm feeling down, watching bloopers of any show cheers me up. My favorites are bloopers from "Parks and Recreation," "The Office," and "High School Musical." Bloopers are hilarious, but any video you find hilarious will do the job. Comedy skits like Key and Peele, talk show segments and interviews, and "try not to laugh" challenges are all great. During a bad day, I often find comfort in rewatching episodes from the Disney shows I used to watch in my childhood — "Suite Life" or "Wizards," anyone?!?
5. Pet a dog/cat or watch videos of cute dogs and cats
Owning a pet is one of the most rewarding experiences ever, especially during the tough times. Petting your dog or cat is an instant source of comfort and being able to cuddle with your pet will put a smile on your face. If you don't own a pet, then the next best thing is to watch cute pet videos online! YouTube is filled with thousands of them. On that note, feel free to follow adorable puppy accounts on Instagram!
6. Go through old photo albums
I'm sure everyone thinks when they were younger, they were the cutest baby and toddler ever. If you're ever feeling down, look through pictures from your childhood. Apart from the insane amount of cuteness and memories buried in these photographs, you can't help but smile at how simple things used to be and how much you've grown since then. I suggest listening to Ed Sheeran's "Photograph" while doing this. Be proud of yourself!
7. Listen to positive and chill music
If you're anything like me, you make playlists for everything. So go ahead and make a playlist with soft, happy, and calm songs to listen to on the bad days. Stay away from sappy and emotional songs unless you're looking to let out a good cry. Otherwise, stick to upbeat music. It sure won't make your pain go away, but at least it'll cheer you up. Unless you're really into loud music, don't include it in your playlist because it'll just bring your spirits down.
8. Treat yourself
Eat some comfort food, cozy up to a rom-com, and read your favorite book! Indulge in chocolate, ice cream, or any food that makes you happy. You deserve it.
9. Take a walk outside
Granted the weather is nice, go out for a walk! Surrounding yourself with nature is relaxing and refreshing. It also gives you time and fresh air to recollect your thoughts and feelings. If it's too boring for you, listen to music on your headphones or bring a friend along. If there's a playground, hit up a swing set and you'll be smiling in no time!
10. List all the things that you appreciate
It's true that things aren't going so well right now. But, take a minute to look at the big picture and put things into perspective. List all the things and people in your life that you love and appreciate. Close your eyes and think back to your best memories you've had till date. Try to remember every moment of it and who/what made it so special. You're probably already smiling.
You don't deserve to be sad. Bringing little sparks of positivity into your day can really make a difference, and maybe even turn that frown upside down.
