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Life

How To Stay Positive When You’re Having a Bad Day

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at TCNJ chapter.

Bad days are the worst, but we all experience them. As a human being, it’s impossible to be happy all the time because something is bound to go wrong, but as cliché as the statement is, it’s important to remember that a bad day doesn’t signify a bad life. Although it can be difficult to remember the good when it feels like the world is against you, it’s the only way to get through the tough times. Whether you failed a test, were late for an important meeting, or got into an argument with your friend, always think about the fact that there are so many more things to be grateful for than there are to be upset about. Here are some tips to help keep this in perspective:

 

1. Breathe

Whenever you’re feeling really stressed out or you’re just having one of those days, remember to take a deep breath and tell yourself that everything is going to be okay. The bad day only has 24 hours like every other day, and it will soon pass.

 

2. Write down ten things you’re thankful for

Although this exercise can seem silly, it will really help put things in perspective for you. Once you think about what makes you happy in life, it will make it easier to focus less on the negative parts of your day.

 

3. Take a walk

Many times, when you’re feeling frustrated or angry, you just need to take a breather. Walk away from whatever it is that you’re doing, and take a walk outside in the fresh air. Nature has a way of making us feel better, and it’s even been proven by science.

 

4. Cry

Now this one may seem counterintuitive, but I’m a big believer in letting out a big cry when you need to. No matter how you’re feeling, your feelings are valid, and it’s okay to break down every once in a while. Crying doesn’t make you weak; it actually makes you strong because you’re allowing yourself to feel whatever it is that you’re feeling. And I don’t know about you, but I usually feel better after a good cry.

 

There’s one million other strategies that could be added to this list, but the most important thing to keep in mind is that a bad day is just a bad day, so don’t let it get the best of you.

Alyssa is a senior English major at TCNJ who loves to read, write, listen to music, and spend time with her friends, family, and dog. She is currently a Features Editor for HCTCNJ. 
Victoria is a senior at The College of New Jersey and a features editor for HCTCNJ.  She is majoring in Journalism and Professional Writing, and minoring in Marketing & Communications.