Life can sometimes get the best of us, even me. I have had to step back and make changes in my life to be happier, here are some things that have helped me along the way.
Stop With Negative Language
The first step for being more positive was trying to stop with the negative self talk, stop being so hard on yourself. We all have bad days and times but don't let it take over your life. Instead of using hurtful speech against yourself, such as "I can't do this," "I hate how I look," "I'm such an idiot," etc. Instead look at the situation and think of the positive aspects, as well as something you would want to do differently in the future. Just stop being so hard on yourself and replace can't with can. You are the only one stopping yourself from moving forward. It may be difficult but we have to be aware if we are the cause of being "miserable," next time a negative thought pops in your head attempt to turn it positive.
Positive Thinking & Readings
Whenever I feel down I look to the simplest things that make me feel better- a good book or positive quotes. Okay so you may be rolling your eyes at this point, but it's true- reading positive messages or quotes can make you happier. I now begin each day thinking about something positive by either reading a quote, poem, passage, etc. This really helped me begin my day on a positive note, setting a better tone for the day (even if I did wake up on the wrong side of the bed).
Keep A Journal
Having a journal to write your thoughts and feelings is a great asset. Even if you're writing about something that upset you, it is beneficial to have a place to put them. This journal can be your outlet, writing anything that comes to mind, make lists, write poems, whatever you want! This can be your personal place for self expression, a time to relax, reflect and be creative. You can even cut out things in a magazine you saw that you liked, there is no right or wrong way- just make sure you're enjoying yourself in the process.
Try Something New
Okay so I'm not saying you need to go skydiving or cliff dive into the ocean- I mean try something that you wouldn't normally do. Like a new exercise activity, hiking trail, new place to visit, the list is endless! Just try and step outside of your comfort zones, you will be surprised what you find out about yourself. Try new things and be adventurous- or don't, it is whatever is going to make you happiest. I know that I have felt happier and proud of myself for trying something new.
Be Active
It has been physically proven that physical activity will boost your mood- your endorphins kick into "turbo" mode and you feel better! You don't have to go run a mile or try the most difficult exercise routine out there- just try and move. You could go for a walk, ride your bike, discover a new trail in the woods, it could be anything that gets you up and moving. Trust me, you will feel better after you have finished- and you may even discover an activity you didn't know you'd enjoy so much.
Take Time for Self Care
I cannot stress enough how important it is to participate in self care- you need a break. We all get so caught up in life and taking care of others that we often forget about ourselves, you need to make time for you. It could be watching your favorit show or movie, going shopping, taking a nap, getting a massage, and it goes on from there. It is basically making time for yourself, even if you are just sitting and decompressing from the day- just make sure it is benefiting yourself. If you don't focus on yourself then you won't be able to take care of others.
Take a Break From Social Media
So this one might not be for everyone but I have found it very helpful to take breaks from social media. You don't have to ban yourself or delete accounts- just be more aware. Try and be more mindful of how often you are using social media and then take into account how you feel after. We don't often realize the negative impact social media can have on us, its has been found that social media can often make people feel worse about themselves. Social media only displays the "perfect" life everyone is living- causing us to second guess ourselves or make comparisons. See if you are able to take a break or cut down the time you spend on social media. You will be able to focus on yourself and other activities, boosting your happiness.
Help Others
Everyone underestimates the power from doing a good deed. By doing something for others you are not only helping them, you feel accomplished as well. Lending a hand to others has a bigger impact than most realize, seeing a need and fulfilling it will make you and the other person happier. From holding the door open to mowing someone's lawn- it all counts.
Stop Forcing Yourself to Have it all Together
In our life it is easy to get caught up in the chaos that comes our way, we all feel pressure to be a perfect person. Let go of the "perfectionist" mindset-we are human and we make mistakes. You don't have to be perfect or have perfection in all aspects of your life, there are some things that are out of our control. Take the waves as they come and do the best you can, there is no reason to stress over the things that we cannot avoid. Life is not easy, but all we can do is try our best, you do not need to hold yourself to unrealistic standards.
Be thankful for the Little Things
Life can be chaotic and take away from our pleasures. We forget to take in the little pleasures in our lives as we are so focused on our issues- and well- life. That is normal! But we need to take a step back and recognize the small things in life we should be thankful for. Stop waiting for the really big moments in life to come, because then you are not truly living. Notice the small things in your day that make you happy- your morning coffee, favorite song, taking a walk, your pet, partner, etc. Just make sure you are enjoying all the things you have.
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StableDiffusion
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