Everyone has experienced at least one bad day during their time at college, whether they’d like to admit it or not. It could be anything from a disappointing test grade to getting caught in a Boone rainstorm with no umbrella. Whenever I experience a bad moment like that, it usually messes up my entire day because I let it get to me and i’m left to deal with the awful mood it puts me in afterwards. It’s almost like nothing can turn my day around and I’m stuck with this invisible dark cloud following me around. Recently I decided to start looking for ways to fix this and get out of the mental rut I was stuck in!
Start out the day with a positive quote.
I have an entire Pinterest board dedicated to inspirational and optimistic quotes to get my day off to a good start. This may seem like a really meaningless thing to do, but that little positive message you told yourself will linger in the back of your mind in stressful moments!
If you didn’t do so great on a test, it’s NOT the end of the world!
I have always beat myself up over bad grades. Now, instead of doing that I am telling myself that I know I can do better and I’ll make sure to be more prepared next time. It’s something that’s over and done with, so there’s no need to dwell on something that I can’t change. Less energy goes into stressing over it, and more goes into planning ahead for future tests or assignments.
Treat yourself.
I don’t know about everyone else, but I have to remind myself that I am allowed a reward for my hard work every once in a while. So go for that grande frappe at Starbucks instead of the tall one, or get that cute dress you’ve been eyeing at Boone Belles for the longest time. Buying something for yourself is a great thing because we all need reminders that we are awesome human beings that are doing the best we can.
Spend some time with a furry friend!
Maybe you live on campus or in an apartment that isn’t pet friendly, but that’s okay. There are tons of cats and dogs at the Humane Society that love getting visitors. Plus, you’re benefitting the animals at the same time, because they could always use some extra attention.
Take a bath or light your favorite candles.
Something about bubble baths and candles are just so relaxing; it’s possibly one of the best combinations to ever exist. If you don’t have access to a bathtub, a hot shower is still calming. If you have the dorm dilemma and aren’t allowed candles, try scented sachet packets or wax melts if they’re allowed. I put sachet packets in my dresser or next to my bed and my favorite scents always cheer me up!
Be nice to your body!
This one is super important because your body goes through so much stress that you might not even notice. If you’re feeling down, try packing a healthy snack and going on a walk. There are some beautiful places to walk around in Boone, and the sights alone have a calming effect. You’ll be getting in some exercise so you will definitely want to make sure you have water and a little snack to keep the good energy flowing.
Try out these tips for just a short period of time and see what kind of difference it makes in your happiness levels! You can always adjust them to find what works for you the best. Either way, say goodbye to any negative vibes and say hello to happiness!