1. Go for a walk in the woods and surround yourself in nature
Being in nature is scientifically proven to make you happier. Use this time to appreciate how beautiful our world is, and appreciate all of the things it has to offer. If you’re on the UNH campus, College Woods is the perfect spot to visit! Here is a picture I took at UNH last weekend that really highlights how beautiful our trees are.
2. Take some photos with friends
Whether this is with a really good professional camera or simply a smartphone camera, it really doesn’t matter! Take an afternoon to have a fun photoshoot with your friends, and pump each other up!
3. Compliment a stranger
When you’re feeling down, it can help to make someone else’s day better. Compliment their sense of style or their hair, and you might just make a new friend!
4. Volunteer at a local animal shelter or soup kitchen
Help out a person or a furry friend in need, and lend a hand. There’s nothing better than giving back to your community, and seeing how happy you can make someone else! Volunteer organizations are always in need of assistance, so get out there!
5. Have a movie night
Queue up a funny movie, get lots of snacks, and find a few friends. Good luck picking the movie out, though!
6. Make a new playlist
One of my favorite things to do when I’m down is create a new Spotify playlist! Add some upbeat classics or browse Spotify for some fresh finds to craft the perfect one. Some of my favorite dancing songs include “Come on Eileen”, “Dance to This”, “Love Story”, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”, and “Dancing Queen”.
7. Make a journal entry about all of the things you appreciate in yourself, or in life
You can make a list of things you appreciate about yourself, like how kind or compassionate you are to others, or makes a list about what or who gives you happiness. Sometimes it’s good to sit and reflect on all of the great aspects of your life, and appreciate what you have. You could even try writing down some positive affirmations to start your day on a cheerful note.
8. Catch up with some friends from home
Sometimes when you’re away at college you can forget to catch up with old friends from high school. Just facetime them for a little bit and see how they’re doing. I bet they miss you!
9. Give yourself a fun look with a makeover
For me, makeup can be a form of self expression, and I truly enjoy the process of applying it. Take the time to give yourself a fun and dramatic look, and try out that new palette you might’ve bought.
10. Read a funny book
I don’t know about you, but I definitely don’t read enough books for fun now that I’m in college. I still love reading, though. When I get the chance to do it, and reading can bring you back to your childhood. I really enjoy Tina Fey’s Bossypants.
11. Watch a comedy special
John Mulaney or Chelsea Peretti are definitely some good options, and can make anyone laugh.
12. Create a schedule to get things done
I often get overwhelmed by how much I have to do in college, and end up stressing out, leading to a bad mood. For me, mapping out the day with a schedule makes me feel more in control and able to tackle what’s ahead. If everything seems like too much, start the easiest tasks that’ll take less than 5 minutes, first. Once you feel that sense of accomplishment, you’ll be motivated to finish the rest of your jobs. You got this girl!
13. Pet the nearest dog
Whether this is your own dog, a dog you meet on the street, or a therapy dog like at UNH’s Paws & Relax, they’re all good options!
14. Talk things out with someone
If nothing is helping you feel better, then maybe it’s time to talk it out. Whether it be with a parent, close friend, or therapist, sometimes you just need to discuss what’s on your mind before you can feel like yourself again.
If anything, just remember that your sadness will pass with time, and that you’re both important and special. ❤️