The Path to Positivity

Our moods depend on a lot of factors—sleep schedules, social circles, and internal monologues all impact how happy we are. Though it’s easy to fall into a rut, simple adjustments can turn that mindset right around.

1. Try to Get More Sleep

We know you’ve heard it all before—sleep improves your mood, can lengthen your life span, and starts your day on the right track. You’ve heard it all before because it’s true! One of the best things for your mind and body is enough sleep, so try to work on a better schedule.

2. Eat a Healthy Breakfast

We’re not always hungry in the morning. Sometimes we’re in a rush and have no time for breakfast. Well, we need to make time because breakfast is the difference between a bad day and a good one. Smoothies and simple dishes like oatmeal can provide enough fuel to get you through the day.

3. Build Healthy Habits

A job well done calls for chocolate—or so we’d like to believe. But healthier habits, like walks in the park or 30 minutes with a good book are far better for your overall health. Taking a little time to reconnect boosts your mood more than doom-scrolling or sugar does.

4. Get Some Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency leads to all kinds of troublesome symptoms. Without it, you’re looking at poor mood, the potential for muscle pain, and more fatigue. Speak with your doctor to find out if you could use more of it; supplements might be the best solution for some people in the winter months.

5. Stick to Positive People

Our moods are just as impacted by external factors as our own. Surrounding yourself with positive people can chase away that negativity. Even if you’re more cynical, a different perspective broadens your horizons and helps you see things in another light.

6. Avoid Negative Self-Talk

You have the biggest impact on your mood. It’s easy to slip into negativity or harsh self-criticism, but it’s time to turn the tables. Recognizing negative patterns is the first step to combat them—pay attention to catastrophizing or persistent blame, and work to rewrite the narrative. Challenge your thoughts or practice positive affirmations to rewire your mindset!

7. Maintain a Workout Routine

Regular exercise does wonders for your body and brain. Studies suggest that even simple exercises like walking or short runs significantly lower the risk of depression. Consistent routines also release endorphins and can even reduce anxiety. You don’t need to become a gym rat but should move throughout the week.

8. Just Be Yourself

Don’t pretend to be someone else. Whether it’s to impress a partner or stand out in the office, that facade only dampens our mood. Staying true to who you are boosts confidence and builds better relationships with those around you, so don’t hide those quirks.

9. Practice Gratitude

Focus on what you have, not what you don’t. A little gratitude goes a long way and focusing on the good can shift your mindset. With enough time and practice, you’ll learn to see the silver lining in life instead of dwelling on all the negative.

10. Consider a Journal

Journals are an excellent way to track thoughts and memories, to safely share feelings without judgment. If you didn’t keep one as a kid, there’s no time like the present to invest in one. Aim to scribble something down at least every few days—you’ll get better insight into your emotions and learn proper strategies for moving forward.

11. Be Nice to Other People

Kindness costs nothing. From paying a genuine compliment to helping someone at work, your actions act as a win-win. Not only will you brighten someone else’s day, but you’ll also feel better about yourself.

12. Tick Off Your Goals

Don’t underestimate the power of to-do lists. They help keep you on track throughout the day and provide a sense of accomplishment when you get stuff done. You can also break your list into micro-goals, achievements that are a little easier but also welcome a larger goal.

13. Indulge in Hobbies You Love

There’s no shame in hobbies! Junk journaling, adult coloring books, and knitting are all popular ways to keep your mind off of everyday stress. Take some time each day doing something you love and watch how quickly your mood improves.

14. Make Time for Self-Care

Hobbies are just one way to better care for yourself. From skincare routines to putting on your favorite album, our moods skyrocket with self-care. Remember that self-care is also about health, which means home-cooked meals, nature walks, or mindfulness.

15. Take Responsibility

It’s not easy to admit fault. It’s even harder to apologize. But responsibility allows us to learn from our mistakes. Accountability affects attitude, so don’t be afraid to have the difficult conversations; you’ll eliminate regret and improve your relationships.

16. Learn New Skills

Just because we’re adults doesn’t mean we stop learning. In fact, working that brain improves our confidence and self-esteem. What’s even better is that studies show a good mood enhances our ability to learn things!

17. Understand You Can’t Control Everything

We know it’s hard to let go, but you can’t control everything in life. Some people will always be difficult, some losses are inevitable, and you can’t predict the future. The best you can do is focus on the now.

18. Consider Meditation

At first glance, meditation seems like a nightmare. Wait, we’re supposed to spend time with our neverending thoughts? No thanks! However, meditation does a plethora of good—it alleviates anxiety, improves our mood, helps us get to sleep, and even chases away negative thoughts. Give it a try before you knock it.

19. Take Breaks From the News

It’s one thing to remain uninformed, but it’s another to take appropriate breaks. Devastating stories often worsen our anxiety and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Step away when you need to. You can always catch up on stories later without staying glued to your phone.

20. Steer Clear of Gossip

As if the news wasn’t bad enough, gossip in the office or your friend groups is just as detrimental to your mood. Try not to engage in the chatter. That kind of negativity will only drag you down, especially if it persists.