Bad days. They're the ban of our existence and usually happen at the worst possible times. To be able to get through bad days, you usually have to work a little extra to have that bounce in your step. Sometimes the bad days are brought on by an overload of stress, a sad event or just because life decided to throw you a curveball because it thought you were having too great of a time. But I decided to set out a little list of tips that usually help me get through even the worst of days.
1. Treat Yo self
The phrase of the infamous Tom Haverford and Donna Meagle from "Parks and Recreation" could not be more perfect for bad days. Failed an assignment? Treat yo self! Disagreement with friends/family/significant other? Treat yo self! Just want to get something you like? Treat yo self! But on a more serious note, sometimes treating yourself to your favorite cup of coffee or getting those really comfy sweatpants or a nice spa day can really boost your morale. I'm a firm believer in taking a day to play catch up emotionally. Because you really don't perform as well as you should if you just aren't feeling too great.
2. Exercise
I know, I know. Exercising is not in my top three favorite things to do. I have to make a gigantic effort to get myself to the gym or onto the running trail, but when I do, I automatically feel so much better. Not only does your brain really love the endorphins exercise gives you, but so will your body! After all, you do not even have to run. Walking, yoga, dancing, basically anything that gets you moving really helps during bad days.
3. Talk With A Friend
In my experience, talking with my friends is usually the thing that helps me the most. I tend to bottle everything up until I burst, which obviously isn't healthy. But having a great friend group and talking with them about everything and anything really helps. After all, being a shoulder to cry on is basically in the friend job description. You don't even have to talk to them about what is upsetting you if you don't want, but having people that make you laugh and forget about the negative feelings that bother you really is great.
4. Watch Your Favorite Movie/TV Show/Documentary
A great documentary about cute animals or breathtaking places in the world usually help me get through a sad day. I mean, who wouldn't smile at baby elephants?
5. Write About It
When I do not feel like talking to anyone when I am having a bad day, I write everything down. I write sad letters, angry letters or simply write about whatever I am feeling.
6. Sleep On It
Bad days are always a little more difficult to tackle if you haven't slept well. So if you have some time, take a little nap or really try to unwind and get some sleep. Recharge and then carry on with what you have to do.
7. Talk To Your Favorite Parent
Everyone has that one parent they prefer talking to when they are having an awful day. Sometimes they'll cry with you, sometimes they'll make you laugh but sometimes, they'll just tell you to grow up.
8. Pray
Praying usually makes me feel not so alone in my struggles. It's nice knowing that you have someone watching over you and making sure that you will be okay. If you're not religious, just asking someone to be there for you when you need it will go a long way.
9. Listen To Adele
Cry, cry and cry some more.
10. Breathe
Breathing can go a long way in the grand scheme of things. Realize that you are loved, important, strong and will persevere. You can do this!
