The days are getting shorter, winter is right around the corner, and the semester is in full swing. So it’s perfectly normal to feel a bit blue when the sun sets earlier and the weather grows chilly. With these 8 happy thoughts, you can cure those seasonal blues.

1. Getting off the plane in your home city.

Just the thought of your plane landing in your home city after a long stretch away at school or a long vacation is enough to warm the heart. The thought of home is comforting and can instantly brighten your day.

2. The first day of summer.

There is no greater feeling than finishing your last final of the spring semester, signifying the start of summer. The first day of summer is a day of hope, potential, and anticipation about what’s to come in the future. Living every day with that mindset will surely cure those seasonal blues.

3. The smell of the air after it rains.

Everyone knows that smell – it’s fresh, clean. Rain washes away what was, presenting a clean slate for what could be.

4. Seeing your dog for the first time in months.

Whenever you’re feeling down, just picture your dog’s face when he sees you when you come home from school for the first time since summer. It’s the purest form of joy and will never fail to put a smile on your face.

5. Coffee.

Caffeine is a stimulant, so just the thought of coffee should cheer you up. And while it’s on your mind, go pour yourself a cup.

6. Daydreaming about all your goals and dreams.

Dreams are necessary. By giving all of your hopes, dreams, and goals a whole lot of thought, you’re making plans to make them come true. But don’t forget to work for those dreams, too.

7. Dessert.

Ice cream, cookies, cake, pie, frozen yogurt. Dessert exists. Does it get any better than that?

8. Your favorite books, television show, and music.

Your favorite forms of entertainment can make your heart the happiest. Just the thought of them can bring a smile to your face. While you’re at it, crack open that book you’ve read a thousand times, watch your favorite episode of your favorite TV show, and put your all-time favorite song on repeat.

These few happy thoughts can instantly brighten your mood. Change in seasons, weather, and circumstances isn’t easy, but knowing what makes you happy is a necessary part of fighting those blues.