We’ve all had bad days and know how difficult it can be to get out of a rut where it seems like nothing is right. And while we may not be able to change some of the big things that are happening in the world or in our personal lives, we can change the way we respond to them. Here are 10 ways to brighten your day when you’re going through a tough time.
1. Watch a comforting movie or TV show
TV shows and movies are a great way to brighten up your days, especially when they’re your designated comfort show. Nothing beats snuggling up in bed or on the couch and taking a few hours to yourself to watch a show or movie that never fails to put a smile on your face. Or try a new show; who knows, you might find a new comfort show to help you on tough days.
2. Bake your favorite treat
Nothing screams comfort like freshly baked cookies or cupcakes. Sometimes all we need to feel better or escape a rut is a bite of a favorite treat or comfort food. So prepare the most extravagant cake you want or your favorite chocolate cookie recipe. Whatever you decide to do, have fun with it and enjoy it, guilt-free!
3. Send to a friend
There’s nothing quite like a good venting session with your best friend. They always seem to know what to say to make you feel better or how to keep you from dwelling on things you can’t control. They may not understand what you are going through, but they will be there to support you.
4. Go for a walk
Fresh air does wonders for correcting a bad mood or clearing the mind. A walk outside may be just what you need to transform your day. You don’t need to have a set distance to walk, just get out there and walk until you feel ready to keep attacking the day.
5. Have a self-care day or afternoon
If you’re having a bad day, take some time for yourself. Self-care comes in many forms and can be whatever you want it to be. Maybe a face mask or a relaxing bath. It is essential to take care of yourself, especially in difficult times like the ones we are going through right now.
6. Write a list of things you are grateful for
Even when we are going through difficult situations, it is important to remember everything you have in your life to be grateful for. Take a piece of paper and a pen and create a list of everything you have to be grateful for in your life. Try to write until you feel ready to take on whatever challenges life throws your way.
7. Listen to your favorite music
One of the best feelings is when you listen to a song and you feel like the singer fully understands what you’re going through. It makes you feel heard and understood. So put on a pair of headphones, lie back, put on your favorite playlist, take a deep breath, and remind yourself that things will get better and you won’t feel like this forever.
8. Draw
Drawing is a great way to express emotions in a positive and constructive way. It doesn’t have to be a drawing. Try painting, writing, or any other way to use your feelings creatively. Just because we may see a specific emotion as negative doesn’t mean it can’t have positive consequences or lead us to make good decisions.
9. Disconnect from social networks
Social media can be a fantastic place to connect with friends and follow your favorite celebrities. However, it can also be mentally draining. So if you’re having a rough day, try a social media cleanse. Forget all the stress and pressure created by the desire to have perfect social media accounts and relax!
10. Read a book
Books allow people to escape the problems of their world and focus on a completely separate world. With a wide variety of books available, there’s bound to be one you’ll like. So grab your favorite book or the one you’ve never even touched and start reading it.
Life is not easy and presents us with challenges that may seem impossible or unfair. However, we can choose to channel the sadness and frustration we may feel into something positive. Whatever you are going through, remember that better days are coming!
