Life gets overwhelming at times and I’ll be the first person to tell you that. Therefore, you must enjoy the small things. Find a few things that make you happy and go for them. Also, here are a few things (and a few tips) that I’ve found to be extremely helpful in cheering me up when I’m down, or just making me feel better all around:
1. Find a monthly subscription that you like and subscribe to it.
Keep it cheap, $10 or lower. Whether it’s Birchbox, Graze, Ipsy... Whatever will make you smile when you check the mail and there’s a little unknown surprise waiting for you.
2. Eat cake for breakfast.
Or pizza, whatever. It won’t kill you and it’ll make you feel better.
3. Wear lipstick.
Let’s face it, it makes you feel fabulous.
4. Tip:
Baby powder always works better than any brand of dry shampoo. I can guarantee that. It’s cheaper, too!
5. Read.
Whether it’s a book or a blog, it’ll help you escape reality for a little while.
6. Drink more water.
You’ll feel rejuvenated and refreshed.
7. Start journaling.
Write down good things that happen to you and happy memories, then go back and read them when you’re feeling down.
8. Say your prayers.
I can’t stress this one enough. Take 15 minutes out of your day and spend some time talking to God.
9. Along with saying your prayers, read a Bible verse or two.
God wants to speak to you, but you have to allow Him to. I promise it’ll make you feel better when you randomly open your Bible and read exactly what you needed to hear.
10. Do some community service.
It doesn’t have to be anything big, but giving back is the least we can do, and it feels good to know you were a blessing to someone. But remember, don’t give to others in order to get something in return.
11. Write down something you’re thankful for every single day.
Being that we’re about to step into a new year, get a clean, new notebook and number from one to 366 (it’s a leap year!). Each night before bed, write down one thing you are thankful for that day. At the end of the year, you can look back and see how blessed you really are.
12. Take lots of pictures.
Especially during the good times. Pictures are memories.
13. Put social media down for a little while.
Take a break. Spend your time baking or crafting.
14. Listen to good music.
Find that artist that you absolutely love and jam the heck out of their newest album. Sing and dance like no one’s watching.. because they probably aren’t.
15. Workout.
You don’t even have to go to the gym. Just do a couple quick exercises at home to make yourself feel accomplished.
16. Create a space you love.
Hang up some Christmas lights and paint a pretty picture to hang above your bed. Print out some pictures and make a collage on your wall. Buy some fake flowers (or real ones if you can keep them alive, I can’t) to add some color and life to your space.
17. Shop at Goodwill.
I’m serious! You’re probably not racking in the big bucks at this stage of your life, and that’s okay! Whether you’re looking for some big t-shirts to wear to class or a picture frame to re-finish (let that DIY side show), it’s cheap and sometimes they actually have some pretty cool stuff.
18. Collect something.
It’s pretty exciting when you unexpectedly find something to add to your collection.
19. Have girls nights.
Have everyone bring their favorite blanket and pillow and make some popcorn. Drink some chocolate milk through bendy straws and watch movies until you all pass out.
20. You don’t have to drink to have fun.
Sure, college is known as the “party years” of your life, but trust me, sober nights are just as much fun, if not even more fun than drunken nights.
21. Pack your lunches instead of eating out.
It’s cheaper and probably healthier.
22. Buy fun makeup.
Experiment with it. Just don’t overdo it... that’s not cute.
23. Spend a day relaxing.
Most of us can’t afford to give up a day of our busy lives to do this, but if you can, do it. And don’t feel bad about it, you deserve it.
24. Talk to your mom.
She’s your best friend. She’ll love you through anything and give you advice (that you might not want to hear at the time), and usually (OK, always), in the end, she’s right.
25. Don’t compare your life to others.
God has a special plan for you. You are unique. You are special. And you don’t need to worry about what other people are doing or where they are. It’s stressful and it creates feelings that shouldn’t be there, like jealousy and anger. Don’t waste your time. Trust in the Lord and His timing. It’s perfect, and you’ll realize that one day.
26. Smile.
As much as possible. You never know whose day you could make by simply smiling in their direction.
