I’ve recently had some bad days where I constantly felt down, unmotivated to do ANYTHING, and it just felt like I wasn’t really myself. And so, I got up one day and decided that it has to stop & I needed to take control of it.

I started noticing some simple situations that happened randomly but still made me feel energized, happy, or care-free. And so, I created a list!

This list has some things that can make my day slightly better and maybe yours too! But, watch out, there might be a couple of contradictory points so just do the opposite of whatever that you usually do! (If that makes sense)

1. Update your music playlist. 

   Yes. This works. Listening to music can cheer you up but listening to different genres and songs every once in a while can have a greater impact. If you’re feeling down, avoid listening to sad music. Don’t make it worse for yourself! Listen to music in every chance you get. It can help block your thoughts and keep you in your own bubble whenever you’re in public.

2. Smile. 

   Most of the time, our faces frown without us being aware of it or even without a valid reason, it’s just our resting “frowning face”. Be aware of your frown & try to smile even if you’re not really in the mood for it. In other words, fake it till you make it. 

3. Be kind & spread love on a daily basis. 

   Remind your friends and your family of how much you appreciate their existence in your life. Even when it’s uncalled for in the middle of the day. You’ll be surprised of how much love you’ll get in return.

4. Invest in something you love. 
   

   No matter how crazy things can get sometimes, give time to something that you love even if it’s as small as buying a book, going to the gym, or even starting a project you’re passionate about.

5. Be lazy. 

   Doing absolutely nothing on a Friday night is socially, mentally, and physically OKAY. Give yourself a break without having to think about deadlines or evening plans. Almost anything can be postponed for later. I’ve been doing that a lot in the past few months and it feels GREAT.

6. Be productive. 
   

   It really cheers me up when I tick off my “to-do” list. Yes, I have a to-do list because I tend to forget a lot of things and I try to organize my thoughts as much as I can. So, finish up your assignments, or plan that trip that you wanted to go to, or go watch your favorite movie!

7. Socialize. 
   

   Spending time alone can be great for you but too much alone time can turn you into a loner! Surround yourself with people who enjoy your company and turn down plans that don’t interest you. Don’t waste your time on negative or fake people just for a “fun” night out.

8. Don’t open any social media for a day. 

   Sure, social media is fun and helps us feel connected to the world. But taking a break from it can be great for your mental health. It can give you a chance to look at your own life without having to constantly compare it to what you see on Instagram or Facebook. I have actually noticed a shift in my mood when I stopped using social media for a DAY. I just didn’t care how everyone’s day was going, I needed to focus on mine.

9. Cook. 

   This has got to be the hardest thing for me but one of the things I mostly enjoy. Although it doesn’t happen often, but cooking your favorite meal is way more satisfying than eating it in a restaurant. Search recipes and start exploring your kitchen!

10. Let go of everything that is beyond your control. 

    This took me a long time to work on and achieve. If you’re facing a problem, fix it. If the problem cannot be immediately fixed or if it is beyond your control, then stop worrying about it for the time being. I can think of many problems that could happen tomorrow or even months from now, but worrying and obsessing over them won’t help. Everything that happens, happens for a reason. And believe it or not, it is for your best even if you don’t see it right now, you’ll find out why it happened soon enough. So be patient.