Unfortunately we all have bad days. Some days it seems like nothing can go right – you wake up late after a long night with crying children, you burn the toast, you hit every red light on the way to work, and you find out you forgot to push send yesterday on an important email. We’ve all been there. But bad days aren’t permanent. Here are a few tried-and-true ways to turn your frown upside down.
Watch videos of puppies or kitties on the internet
Or any baby animals, for that matter. Or baby humans. Babies are just cute, and are a sure-fire way to bring a smile to your face.
Sing loudly
Preferably in the car, so you can try to hit every note without judgment. It’s hard to frown (or cry) while singing, so belt it out like you’re Mariah Carey’s understudy.
Dance
Like nobody’s watching, if that makes you feel better. Turn up your favorite music and let loose. Getting your blood pumping will release endorphins that will surely make you feel happier.
Watch This Video
Jim Carrey is not only funny, but wise. Here’s 3:15 excerpt from a graduation commencement speech in 2014 for the Maharishi University of Management that will make you feel like anything is possible.
Count Your Blessings
Write down everything – yes, everything – that you are grateful for. It will put your life in focus and help you realize how great your life really is. (Because it really is!) Put it somewhere that you’ll have easy access to it the next time you’re having a bad day.
Compliment Someone
Whether it’s a stranger or someone you know really well, tell them something you particularly like or enjoy about them. Everyone likes compliments, and seeing another person light up should lift your mood.
Do Something Nice
Take it a step further than a compliment by going out of your way to do something kind for someone. Study after study confirms that service to others is what brings the most joy.
Bake Cookies
Eat a few, then give some away to a neighbor or friend.
Treat Yo’Self!
After trying everything above, you still can’t stop thinking about that chocolate glazed donut? Go for it. Buy yourself some new heels if it’s a particularly awful day. Don’t allow yourself to go crazy, but hey, sometimes a little indulgence can be just what you need to lift the rainclouds. (Just don’t make it a habit, or you’ll create more bad days by going into debt.)
