Life is tough. I've lived for 21 years on this earth and I know my share of hurt and hard times are just beginning. But in a world full of fighting, heartache and being legitimately worried that Donald Trump may soon be running this country, I am proud to consider myself an optimist. Being angry in life is too easy. The real challenge is being able to find happiness and stay positive each day. For all of my fellow optimists out there (and for those of you who would like to join the bright side), I'm here to provide a list of a few every day, simple things that can make staying positive a little easier.
1. Coffee
I'm a firm believer in coffee. Morning, night, iced, hot, blended. Maybe this is the addiction talking, but I know that I'm always in a better mood with a coffee in my hand.
2. Open windows
There's nothing quite like the feeling of a spring or summer breeze. If you're having a bad day, crack open a window or go for a drive with the windows down. You'll feel better, trust me.
3. A great outfit
In the wise words of Ms. Demi Lovato, "What's wrong with being confident?" Even if you're feeling your worst, sometimes putting on a cute top or that pair of jeans that fit just right can boost your confidence and make you smile a little wider.
4. Sunshine
As Minnesotans, we know nothing feels better than that first day of warm sunshine after a long, dreary winter. Our bodies need vitamin D, and it isn't uncommon for our levels to get pretty low during the winter months in Minnesota. Your body will be happy if you get out and cherish those few months of warmth (but it will be even happier if you remember to put on your sunscreen)!
5. Books
Read everything and anything. Read Shakespeare, read Shel Silverstein, read the nutrition facts on your box of cereal. Reading stimulates your mind and let's you escape to other worlds (or just inside your cereal box).
6. Stars
Stars are severely underrated. When I am lucky enough to get out of the city and look up at the night sky, I could not be happier. Stars make me feel overwhelmed, awestruck and energized all at the same time. They are probably one of the things that make me happiest.
7. Dogs
Dogs honestly make me happier than most people. My day is usually made if I just get to see a dog. Studies have shown that interacting with dogs has the ability to reduce stress and help prevent depression. Cats are good too, especially if they act like dogs.
8. Music
This one is a no-brainer for me. Music is incredible and can so easily make you happy when you're feeling down. I don't care if you're drowning the world out in your bedroom with your headphones in, or if you're crowd-surfing at your favorite concert–music has the ability to completely turn your mood around in a matter of minutes.
9. The outdoors
Probably the easiest, most available source of happiness: nature. Feeling sad? Go outside. Angry? Go outside. Overwhelmed or stressed? The solution is almost always getting out of the house and into nature. Feeling the earth beneath your feet and fresh air in your lungs can really help perk you up.
10. Friends
If you can't find a dog anywhere, a friend will have to do. We all know our days can be made with something as simple as a text message from a close friend. Nothing can replace face-to-face time with the people we love.
Don't let this world make you hard. Look for the simple, everyday things that make you happy and strive to emit positivity where ever you go. I'm quite optimistic that you'll be able to do it!
