Do you ever feel like your life is too stressful? Has school already got you down in the dumps? Work has just been much too boring lately, perhaps? Well, hopefully, this article can help you out a little bit. I'd like to share five things I like to do to help make my days a little bit more fun and exciting.
1. First things first: How do you wake yourself up in the morning?
The way you wake up in the morning can really set the tone for the rest of the day. Waking up to the same pre-set alarms that come on your phone can get pretty boring very quickly. One way to make the beginning of your day a little better is to wake up to a fun song that makes you happy. For example, for the past year I've been waking up to the song "Man in the Mirror" by Michael Jackson. Hearing Michael's soulful plea to himself to become a better person makes me want to simultaneously be the best person I can be and also break into dance. (I highly recommend waking up to this song).
2. Give yourself a smile.
This is something I do every time I see myself in a mirror. As I pass by in the hallway, or as I leave the bathroom, I'll give myself a little grin. I'm not sure why, but it makes me feel cute and happier. I think seeing myself smile, even if it's subconsciously out of vanity, makes me feel like I am happy. It's such a small, simple thing to do, but it works. (At least for me).
3. Google whatever it is you love.
So for example, if you love cats, Google "cats." Look at cats. Be happy. It's pretty simple. For me, I like to google Dancing With The Stars videos. I love watching "Dancing With The Stars." (Still shipping Meryl and Maks, to be honest. But it's fine. Whatever).
4. Put a little boogie in it!
Doing homework and hate it? Doing work-work and hate it? Dance it up a little! If you're typing an essay, add some little head motions and type keys to a fun rhythm. Get goofy with it. It's such a small thing, but can really boost your energy. This is especially fun when cleaning. Adding music makes it all the more fun!
5. Give yourself a high five.
Alright, I'm not gonna lie. I don't actually do this. BUT, I know Barney Stinson from "How I Met Your Mother" did it in an episode once, so it should definitely be a thing. Any form of self-appreciation/encouragement/love is good. I think that doing it in front of your friends could be pretty funny too, so let's make everyone happy! Make your friends laugh, and make yourself feel good. (Because you deserve it!!!)
Doing these things, while not guaranteed to help you brighten your day, have helped me and should help you too. On a more serious note, remember: self-care is important. If you feel you need help, there are resources for you to reach out to who want to help you. For those who might need it, or for those who know someone who might, the suicide hotline number 1-800-273-8255. CALL if you feel like giving up. Everyone's life is worth saving.
Take care of yourselves. Be happy!