Make a list. Sometimes, all you need is a reminder of all the good things in your life. It can be anything, even the smallest of things. Hang it up in a place where you’ll always see it, like near your bed or your mirror.

Avoid stressors. I know this can be difficult, especially if one of your stressors is something that you must do, like work or school. However, you can minimize the amount of stressors you have to deal with in one day. Don’t do things that put you in a situation that will cause you to be negative!

Try to minimize the amount of negative people in your life. Negativity is contagious and the last thing you need in your darkest moments is more negativity. Now, you don’t have to cut people out of your life, but try to reinforce their negativity with your positivity. Every time they say something negative, you say something positive!

Everything happens for a reason. Yes, I know. It’s a cliché. But it’s true. The negative things bring the most positive things in life. It’s very difficult to remember this sometimes, but if you can remind yourself of it from time to time, your negativity will ebb away.

Write. Of course, I, the writer, am going to recommend this, but it’s true. Sit down and write down all the things that have been causing you stress or anger. It doesn’t have to make sense, your words just need to fill the page. Do not read over your words after you’ve finished, wait until the next day when you have a fresh perspective.

Exercise. Working out is a healthy way to relieve negative energy. Going for a run is oddly satisfying, there’s something about hitting the pavement with your feet that just alleviates all my stress.

Remind yourself that you’re human. No one is positive all the time. Things happen. It’s okay if you have a day or two where you are very negative. Don’t beat yourself up over it.

Make a playlist. Music can make you sad, angry, happy, etc. The list goes on and on. Certain songs will make you feel more negative than others. Make a playlist with songs that make you feel happy and ready to face the day ahead. Stay away from those songs that make you feel sad or empty.

Open your blinds/curtains. This might sound weird, but sunlight makes everything seem so much better. Your room is brighter, you can enjoy seeing the sky (or a view, if you have one), and it’s a good reminder that no matter what, the sun will always raise in the morning.

Hang out with friends. Go see a movie, go to the mall, or just grab coffee. A good support system is so important to maintain a positive attitude. If you notice that your support system seems to be causing you a lot of stress or negativity, it might be time to make a change.

I hope this list helps you maintain a brighter outlook on life! After all, we only have this life, so we might as well try and make it the best we can.