Sometimes it’s just one of those weeks. Have you ever gone through a period of time where you just want to crawl into a ball, listen to sad music, and cry your eyes out until you get a headache and then slowly drift to sleep? Just me? Okay. But seriously, we all have those times when we’re in a major funk that we can’t seem to get out of. Whether it’s because of a particular situation or it’s just how you’re feeling at the moment, we’ve all dealt with trying to get out of a bad mood. Here are some go-to things to do when you’re trying to be more positive:

Write a gratitude list

Writing a gratitude list will keep you focused on what really matters, your blessings. It’s extremely easy to get lost in your own head and forget about all the beauty that is already around you.

Read an inspiring book or story

When I’m feeling down I like reading a success story because it reminds me that miracles happen everyday and if you want something all you have to do is work for it. At times it may feel like everything is going wrong and no matter what you do you always get the short end of the stick. Listening to someone else’s story will shift your perspective and lead you to remember that everyone has bad days and failures, the key is to keep going.

Listen to uplifting music

Music is truly one of the most powerful forces. Have you ever listened to a song and found that it completely transformed your mood? Having a go-to playlist that you turn on to pump yourself up when you’re in a bad mood will help you to conquer your negative emotions.

Help someone

Sometimes when you’re feeling the down the best thing to do is focus your attention somewhere else. Spreading kindness is a great way to shift your focus and experience positivity.

Go outside

I’ve mentioned this many times before, but I’ll say it again because it’s so important: GO OUTSIDE. Especially if you’re in a pessimistic mood, please go outside. Being outdoors will lift your spirits and lead you to thinking more positive thoughts. If you find yourself drifting into negativity and thinking irrationally, spend some time outside and watch your feelings change.

Practice Mindfulness

I’ve been learning more about the importance of mindfulness and I’ve discovered that practicing it will drastically improve the quality of your life. Most of the times we find ourselves in a funk, thinking negatively about something that hasn’t even happened. If you stay in the present moment, you won’t feel bad about the past or fear the future, you’ll only have the now. Being focused on the current moment will relieve you of so much unnecessary anxiety.

Talk to a person with positive energy

I truly believe in the importance of surrounding yourself with positive people who lift you up and make you feel good. Misery loves company, but if you’re already in a bad mood, help yourself by resisting the urge to hang out with your friend who loves venting and complaining. Instead try spending time with people who see the good in all situations.

Just because you’re in a bad mood doesn’t mean you have to ride out those negative feelings. Take control of your situation by taking back control of your mind. You’ll find that no matter what life throws at you, you’ll be able handle it without freaking out. Do you have a go-to activity for when you’re in a bad mood? Who do you turn to when you’re feeling negative?

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Personal account: @gabbywalters13