You wake up super early even though you could have slept in, your computer starts to go on the fritz, and, oh yeah, that money you expected from an employer was cut in third.
Things like this can make you want to flip the world the bird and go right back to bed – but you’re probably too mad to sleep even if you did. So, how do you take that bad day and actually make it good again?
The only difference between a bad day and a good one is your perception of it. Although you can try to justify that certain things happened and it is their fault that you’re angry at the world, the reality is that if you were happy, those things wouldn’t bother you as much. You’d be much more inclined to just let them roll off your back or take them in a more positive stride.
The key then is to work to try to change your perspective. This can be very difficult to do when life isn’t going your way, but it isn’t impossible.
Here are some tips to help you move in that direction and hopefully end your day better than it started:
Figure Out What Is Bothering You
Although it may feel like you just “woke up on the wrong side of the bed,” usually a bad mood exists because there is something bothering you. Maybe something happened in the past that isn’t resolved or you have a worry or concern that you can’t seem to quiet. Either way, it can be eating at you without you even realizing it on a conscious level.
So, to bring it to the forefront, actively try to figure out what you’re thinking that has you in a dither. Did you have a fight with your guy and now there’s an unhealthy tension that exists? Are you waiting for some medical test results that may alter the course of your life?
The more you’re able to pinpoint the source of your anxiety, tension or frustration, the more you’re able to deal with it in a manner that takes it away completely – leaving you in much better spirits.
Distract Yourself
Sometimes the best thing you can do when you feel ready to jump down everyone’s throat is to distract yourself. The more you sit and think about what is ticking you off or making you unhappy, the worse you’re going to feel. Why add fuel to the flame when you can do something that snuffs it out completely?
Find an activity that takes your complete attention to give your mind a break for the moment. Maybe you could get engrossed in a good novel or start that detailed paint project you’ve been putting off. If you do something that you’ve actually been meaning to cross off your to-do list, not only will you feel better because you let go of the anger or hostility for a second, but you’ll also have a feeling of accomplishment which always makes a bad day better.
Exercise
Although this may feel like the last thing you want to do, it may be one of the most beneficial. It gets your heart rate going, allowing you to release some of the stress and tension you’re likely feeling at the moment and boosts some happy little endorphins into your body.
Throw on some headphones to tune out the rest of the world and it gets even better. When you’re jamming to your favorite music to soothe your mind and body, it’s easier to let your cares and concerns slip away.
Besides, no one will want to bother you because you’ll be the crazy woman lifting weights of monstrous proportions who could do some serious body damage.
Count Your Blessings
This one may be hard to do when you feel like life has you pinned in the corner, but if you can just take a look at how fortunate you truly are, you’ll start to switch your view from one of negativity to one of positivity. Sure, things may not be going your way in one or two areas, but you still have a lot to be thankful for if you stop and think about it.
Make a list, either on paper or in your mind, of all the things in your world that you are lucky to have. If you have a supportive, loving family, then take note of it. Perhaps your health is good so you’re able to make it through your days without having some chronic or debilitating disease. Maybe your job isn’t the greatest, but it pays the bills.
If you are having difficulty coming up with a list because your mood is so foul, think of people that have it worse than you. Certainly they would trade shoes with you in a heartbeat. Figure out why and then be thankful for it.
Do Something Fun
Maybe you’ve been in a sour mood for days or weeks and you’re just bored with life. You’re tired of each day being the same as the day before and the spark you once had is now extinguished completely.
If this is the case, then it’s time to do something about it. Come up with 5-10 things that you’ve been wanting to try that you haven’t yet. Been thinking about skydiving, but haven’t worked up the courage just yet? How about those pole dancing classes that make you blush every time you think about yourself learning to be all sexy while getting in great physical shape at the same time?
Now, pick one or two of the things on your list and actually set them up. Make appointments if you need to so you stay committed. Just do something to get the ball rolling and you may feel better instantly.
Let It Out
People often swear or yell just because it makes them feel better. So, perhaps some well-placed streams of obscenities or screaming at the top of your lungs may help relieve whatever it is you’re feeling.
It’s like your emotions are in a pressure cooker and if you don’t let them out, they’re going to raise the lid off that baby and then cause some major damage. Of course, you shouldn’t go all crazy out in public, so you need to pick a time and place that is appropriate for what you’re about to do.
Ideally, you’ll want to use your house when no one is home. First of all, no little ears need to hear the words you’re likely to say. Second, you don’t want to have to edit or watch what you release verbally for fear that you’ll offend someone. You want to be able to shout out exactly what is on your mind, no matter how improper it may be.
Sometimes just giving your negativity a voice is all you need to get you back on the right track and turn your day around. At a minimum, it at least feels better to say it – even if no one can hear you.
Sometimes things happen in our worlds that make it tough to smile. But, it’s up to you if you want to make your days good or bad. I, personally, prefer the former and I hope you do too.
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