1. Cut out the negativity from your life
There is a lot of negativity in this world, but that doesn't mean you have to succumb to it. If you have people around you that are constantly lowering your self-esteem or bringing you down, the cut 'em! It's as simple as that. Why would you want to hang around people that kill your confidence? You need to realize that you're better than that and worth so much more. Even if it means cutting out every last friend you have. Try and surround yourself with those who support and strengthen you.
2. Get healthy
I know that in this day and age, it's almost impossible to find someone who doesn't drink soda. We are a generation surrounded by salty foods and sugary snacks. Why would anyone eat spinach if they can have a french fry? About three years ago, my family and I made the decision to eat healthier. We cut out junk food completely and stopped drinking soda (sounds mortifying, right?). It was a big change and took time. But after a while, I noticed that I felt much better on the inside and had more energy to during the day. I promise you, that when you take a step - no matter how small- to eat healthier, you will see changes in your daily life.
Eat more greens, order a water instead of diet coke, and skip the dessert.
3. Laugh more
I know this may seem silly, but statistics have shown that laughing more can lead to a longer life. Okay, that might not be true... but hey, laughter is still good for you. I always try and find a way to laugh during the day, even if it's at something my professor said in class. If you're having a bad day or feeling stressed, take about five minutes to go on youtube and search for something funny. Seriously, laughing will help you feel ten times better. I promise!
Here's a video that I like to watch whenever I'm having a bad day: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEBLt6Kd9EY
4. Just breathe
If you find that you're stressing out about an exam or job application, just relax and take a deep breath. Realize that everything will happen if it's supposed to happen and there's no need to over-stress. Take a step back and look at everything you have accomplished. Even if it's something little, like graduating from high school, realize that you're worrying will get you no where. There's this quote I found on pinterest the other day that I absolutely love: "Most of the things we worry about never happen"
Isn't that the truth? So whenever you find yourself stressing about something small, close your eyes and take a deep breath. Everything's going to be fine.
5. Take a spontaneous picture
Like I said before, we live in a crazy generation. Most people don't have to buy cameras because their phone is already equipped with a decent one. I know it may seem weird to say that taking pictures will make you happier, but just hold on a second... let me elaborate. Have you ever had one of those days where you bust out your phone (or camera) and to show your friend a funny picture you took. And after that, you find yourself scrolling through other pictures you've taken the past couple months. Trust me when I say this, you want to have pictures to look back on. Every picture is a captured moment and the more you have, the more memories you hold. If you haven't had the experience I just described... you will.
6. Hang out with your family
When i say this, I don't mean to completely ostracize yourself from your friends in a desperate attempt to hang out with your family. No. I meant that you shouldn't neglect spending time with your family. You never know when you might have to suddenly move away or something unexpected happens. For the most part, being with your family shouldn't be a horrible experience. Find time to be with the parents who raised you and the brother/sister that pestered you. You want to make sure that you have good memories to look back upon when you're sitting on a rocking chair in a retirement house.
7. Do something nice for someone
I recently had a Pretty Little Liars date with one of my good friends. Every premiere, we usually go to one another's house and watch the show together. I guess you can call it a tradition. Anyways, I felt like doing something nice so I asked her if she wanted a drink from Starbucks. I know it may not seem like a huge feat, but I felt good doing it. I love that feeling you get whenever you commit a random act of kindness. I wanted to buy my friend a drink because I knew that in a couple of days, I wouldn't be seeing her (She booked a trip to Hawaii for six months because of a missions program). Just try it and I guarantee that you'll feel a little warmer inside.
8. Sing in the car
I suck at singing, yet, my dream is to be a famous singer (totally kidding). If I could have any talent in the world, it would be to sing. I feel like singing really gets your endorphins pumping, especially if it's your favorite song. So on your way to school or work, try singing a couple of verses from that One Direction song and you'll see how efficiently it can boost your mood. And yes, I am in fact a Directioner.
9. Treat yourself
There are times when all I do is save and save and save. I don't like spending money because it's hard to make it, unless you have a well-paying job. But there are time when treating yourself to something is a good idea. Now, I don't mean spending half your savings on a Chanel purse or a new car. I'm gearing towards more of the smaller things; such as a new outfit or a Java Chip Frappacino. Give yourself a little present every now and then... it makes you feel a little more special than you already are.
10. Smile
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| Yes, this is my dog. Lulu's her name [: |
Did you know that it takes more muscles to frown than to smile? So smile.
11. Plan a last-minute date
Whether your single or not, you can plan a last minute date with just about anyone. If your single (like me), plan a spontaneous yogurtland date with some of your good friends. Talk about anything! I find it makes me more happy when I catch up with old friends. And if you have a boyfriend/girlfriend, then you still be spontaneous and plan something for them! One of my friends, who goes to school up in NorCal, went over to her boyfriend's dorm and surprised him with a cake that she and a couple of her friends made. I thought it was cute and spontaneous at the same time.
12. It's okay to be alone
I know a lot of people that are constantly working, studying, or partying. While doing these things can be fun at times, it's nice to spend time alone once in a while. Having alone time is important because it allows you to focus on one thing: yourself. So try cuddling up with a good book or your favorite movie because having that time to yourself is precious.
13. Drink tea
Do it. Now.
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