We humans can be fickle when it comes to our emotional state. Sometimes we’re bothered by our environment or the actions of others, sometimes we’re stressed or worried, and sometimes we just wake up on the wrong side of the bed. Whatever the cause, sometimes we simply find ourselves stuck in a bad mood.
While a chronic negative emotional state may call for more serious attention, more often than not, a bad mood can be addressed quickly and turned around swiftly. A bad mood doesn’t have to mean a bad day; you may just turn that frown upside down. Here are a few steps to try the next time you find yourself in a bad mood.
Seek Solitude
The demands of other people, whether perceived or realized, can feel overwhelming. If you’re in a bad mood, you’re probably not bringing your best to the people around you. As soon as you can, carve out some solitude for yourself. Perhaps a walk outside, a cup of tea, or even a nap will give you the break you need to reduce the incoming stimuli and reset your thoughts. Even if all you can get is five minutes hiding in your closet, take it. Breathe and bask in glorious solitude.Eat, Drink, and Be Merry
A busy lifestyle can easily lead us to forget to eat or even take a sip of water. If our hunger and thirst go unanswered long enough, our bodies are sure to turn up the crank. When you find your mood off, ask yourself: “Have I eaten yet today? Am I thirsty?” Take care of your basic needs and see if a meal or a glass of water doesn’t make that crankiness subside.Go Outside
Many of us spend far too much time sitting indoors with our eyes focused on a glowing screen. Don’t let a day pass you by without stepping away from your work and into the sunshine (or rain, or snow). No matter the weather, get out there, even if for a few minutes. Breathe fresh air, look around you, and take in the sounds and smells of nature. If you find yourself in a bad mood, walk out the door.Phone a Friend
Sometimes we’re feeling down because we’ve had altogether too much solitude. If you’ve been riding solo for a while and can’t figure out why you’re so blue, pick up the phone and connect with a loved one. It could be someone you speak to regularly or someone you haven’t heard from in ages. Make a connection, find out how that person is doing, laugh, share your kind heart, and nurture a relationship. You may find your bad mood turned around in a jiffy.Practice Gratitude
Often, we find ourselves experiencing a negative mental state when we’ve lost perspective. We’ve forgotten our priorities and what truly matters. The easiest way to regain a proper perspective is to list things we’re grateful for. Take out a pen and paper or simply state them out loud; either way, list as many things as you can possibly think of.For example, you may be grateful to be alive or for your parents, your children, the food in your cupboard, the plumbing and electricity in your home, your faith in God, or your favorite comfy pajamas. Keep going until you’re plumb out of ideas and reveling in the immense abundance you enjoy in your life.
