Everyone has those days when they just don’t even feel like rolling out of bed in the morning. Whether you weren’t happy with that last Chem exam grade or are just plain bored of feeling stuck in a rut, there’s ways out of feeling down in the dumps. Anyone can transform their dull feeling into a much more cheerful and positive outlook. Try these seven easy ways to make yourself feel like a perfectly rejuvenated you.
1) So you think you can dance? Throw yourself a raging dance party! Turn up your stereo and just let loose! Okay, maybe not during finals week. But once in a while when you’re having those dull days that consist of simply sitting at a desk and staring at a book, it’s a great idea to just rock out to your favorite tune. Throw in some random dance moves. Dancing, even when it feels silly, can easily turn a negative mood into an optimistic one. If you’re not a dancer, any type of exercise will suffice too. You’ll feel much more energized and have such a feel-good attitude afterwards.
2) Try something new! We are so lucky to live in a city of endless experiences. So take advantage of them all! If you ever feel stuck in the same mundane rut or are just craving some excitement then look into an event or activity that you’ve never even thought about trying before. Been bogged down by a friend to listen to this awesome new band she’s discovered? Give it a chance. Maybe they will be your next favorite. What about that club you keep getting e-mails from but haven’t been to a meeting yet for? See what it’s all about this week. Or maybe you’ve always wanted to get into a new hobby like photography- go take a class! You might be surprised at how the opportunities you expose yourself to can boost your mood, adding a little delight and something to look forward to.
3)Treat yourself. Whether you’ve had your eye on the prettiest dress from Forever 21 or are dying for a hot new hairstyle, a little retail therapy every now and again can give you that pampered feel-good feeling, boosting your confidence. While it’s a not good idea to make this a weekly occasion, we have to admit it feels awesome when you’re wearing that new outfit or rocking a new hairstyle that everyone notices. Of course, there are tons of free ways to spoil yourself as well. Simply give yourself a mini manicure or practice some yoga moves (You can finds TONS on YouTube). Simple things like this really can work wonders. Practice what you love too, like playing guitar or working on that novel you started writing. Say goodbye to that dreary feeling!
4) Appreciate the little things. Make a list of all the things in your life that you are happy for. Start with yourself-from your willingness to change a negative mood into a happy-go-lucky feeling, to all the beautiful things about you! Then write down all the things you are lucky to have and the people in your life who are there for you by your side whenever you need them. Personally, I think one of the things we have to be grateful here at Pitt is the fact that we have access to countless opportunities and have a bright future ahead of us. The list goes on and on!
5) Keep in touch. Reconnecting with family, old friends back home, or simply just ones around here that you need to catch up with always puts me in the greatest mood. It’s always a good idea to reminisce with an old friend from home over the phone or via Skype. This will definitely take your mind off that dreariness you’ve come across. Talking with old friends lets you remember all the hilarious memories you’ve had and reminds you that they are there to support you and care so much about you. That alone brings a smile to my face. Reconnecting with friends and family can also give you the opportunity just to talk to about why you’re feeling down in the dumps. Family and best friends are the best listeners and are sure to have those hilarious jokes you love or remind you of something that makes you feel stronger. These are the ones in your life that almost never disappoint! So, reach out to your close friends or family and let them know you’re thinking about them. It’ll have you laughing, feeling ten times better in the end.
6) Add a little color. Studies actually show that looking at and being around bright, vibrant colors will positively influence your mood. It will put not only yourself but others around you in a happier mood. Transform your dull dorm into a splash of perky color palates. Decorating, even with simple construction paper, can do a world of difference. Pull out that array of spring tops you’ve left buried in the back of your closet. Wear your favorite colorful funky jewelry and mix and match with a different colored purse. Make a cool collage to paste onto all your notebooks and folders out of magazine clips and bright pictures. The possibilities are endless to adding a pop of color to your life.
7) Say cheese! If you really want to turn that boring or stressed out mood around, go ahead and smile, even for no reason at all! Stop taking life so seriously. There’s a good chance you will feel so much happier and more carefree. When you’re walking around campus keep in mind that you look amazing while you’re showing off that gorgeous smile. Go out and enhance your inner and outer beauty by bringing out your best feature . Show others the friendly and confident individual that you are. Nobody can resist a warm ear to ear grin when they see one! Smiling is truly contagious so you’ll be helping yourself as well as others. Keeping a smile on your face also acts as a stress reliever and lowers blood pressure. It really is the key to living a happier and more cheerful lifestyle.