We all get those days—the ones when we open the curtains in the morning, see the miserable sky, and think, “I’d rather not go out today.” We all have those days when our minds just freeze and we feel cold and isolated, although we know we have people there for us. 

1. Eat & Drink Healthily

Although it’s nice to have a cheeky slice of Victoria’s Sponge in the evening with your hot drink, I honestly cannot stress enough how much a good diet impacts your mindset. I recently tried a little experiment- I cut out all junk foods (cake, sweets, and chocolate) for a few weeks. This really made me feel amazing in myself, and I felt a lot healthier as well as happier. Try replacing a sweet snack with a portion of freshly cut apple or a banana. It’ll make your skin glow, your happiness shine and you’ll feel refreshed and concentrated for work/education/everyday activities.

2. Train Your Mind By Keeping A Journal/Diary

It always helps when you’re feeling a little dull to write down exactly what is bothering you. Sometimes, it may seem like something is a big issue when, in reality, it is not. For example, “Carol has been spreading rumours about me in the workplace today.” Writing this down will help you identify how you are feeling. In this situation, you should realise that if the rumours weren’t true, why would you care? Or, if you’re not Carol’s friend, why are you letting her control your emotions? This is all about thinking rationally. A diary helps you to not only identify how you’re feeling, but it can also be like a best friend. You know you can write anything without it getting around, and you’ll feel so much better about your life once you’ve vented and written down everything that’s bugging you.

3. Exercise Often

Exercise is one of the most important parts of being happy. It may seem like a chore, but when you run or keep active, your body releases endorphins (hormones that make you happy), and who doesn’t want to be happy? Just take a few moments out of your day to go for a brisk walk or a slow jog- it doesn’t have to be a hardcore run or gym sesh. Plus, it will keep you in shape too!

4. Listen To Encouraging Music

Music can be a big influence on daily life. Even listening to one powerful song a day can completely change your mood or feelings about something, so try listening to some encouraging tunes. If you’re revising for an exam or have a load of work to do, try listening to some instrumental music. This is supposed to help you relax and focus without getting distracted with lyrics. Moreover, genres such as dream pop can be very intriguing and calming to listen to (one of my favourites is All The Things Lost by MSMR).

5. Get Rid Of Toxic People

Who needs snakes in their lives? As hard as it may be, try cutting out anyone trying to cause trouble in your life and adding unnecessary stress to it. We are all unique individuals, and to live a positive life you must be able to accept yourself and others! Just make sure you are socialising with people who care about you.