It is normal to feel sad every once in a while, but it can be problematic when the feelings do not lift. When the haze cannot go away. It is moments when you want to give up most that you have to rise above it. I often struggle with confidence issues and have a hard time resurfacing when down in the dumps. Below is a list of ways to overcome the funk and be the best you.
1. Stop yourself from thinking phrases like, “no one likes me” or “I am not attractive enough.”
Negative thoughts only stunt your growth and keep you from being the best you.
2. Exercise or go for a walk and get some fresh air.
People who exercise regularly benefit from higher self-esteems.
3. Clean your living space.
De-clutter, organize, straighten the bed, vacuum and disinfect. Organize your closet and while you're at it, plan outfits you would like to wear in the future.
4. Listen to music that makes you happy.
Dance it out or have it on in the background while relaxing or cleaning.
5. Do something out of your comfort zone.
If you want to go to something and have no one to go with, go anyway! Do something adventurous that you would not normally do, like zip lining. It leaves your heart pumping and body exhilarated.
6. Do the Wonder Woman stance.
Stand feet hip-width apart, hands on hips, head up, while taking deep breaths for about two minutes. It is a great way to start each day, or whenever you need a pick-me-up during the day. While doing so, take the time to claim your personal superpower. With each breath, focus on what makes you powerful and unique. While exhaling, get rid of any negative thoughts or feelings about yourself.
7. Learn something new.
Even if you do not remember it or stick with it for long, it is good to keep your brain active in a variety of ways.
8. Call an old friend or family member.
Simply hearing a familiar voice can make you feel better. You can unleash you worries onto them, catch up on recent events and laugh about old times.
9. Look for opportunities in life’s challenges.
If hung up on something, look for an alternative way to take it on. There is always more than one way to do something. Our lives are not always meant to take the course we originally thought it would.
10. Get off of social media.
If that means you have to turn off your phone for a couple of hours, then do it. Find something else more productive to do that keeps you from comparing yourself to others. People present their better, or possibly worse sides on Facebook, so it is useless to spend any time feeling envious of others for what they post online.
11. Spend some extra time with a furry loved one.
If you do not have a pet of your own, visit a friend or family member with one. You could also visit the local animal shelter or pet shop. Interaction with animals has significant health benefits and no one loves you like a puppy.
12. Evoke your inner kid and watch a favorite childhood movie.
For me, that means movies like "Winnie the Pooh," "Fox and the Hound" or "The Lion King." Sometimes all you need in life is to crawl up in bed with your favorite blanket and candy and watch a classic.
Everyone has different ways of coping. Sometimes all it takes is something small, a distraction or a change in thinking. It is easy to get caught up in negative emotions, but it is never good to stay tangled up. There are ways to conquer your greatest fears if you are positive and let things go.
