It’s often difficult to navigate the ups and downs that life throws at us every day. Especially throughout this pandemic, it has been clear that many people have been leaving more time for themselves, losing an aspect of social interaction. Having to communicate virtually (for the most part) has made it difficult to share with others what we are going through.
In all honesty, we never truly know what someone is going through. Even our closest friends might try and act tough on the outside by faking a smile when they could be struggling on the inside. I tend to sometimes keep things that are bothering me inside until I can’t tolerate it any longer and suddenly burst. Throughout the years, I have found ways to cope with my frustrations in order to prevent this burst and surpass it in order to improve my overall well-being. These tips have not only helped me but also have helped my friends lead a happier lifestyle, and I hope they will help you too!
1. Bullet Journaling
Being a creative person, I have always looked for ways to let out my creative ideas. It wasn’t until about a year or two ago that I started to take up bullet journaling. I never knew how important it was going to be for me. I spend countless hours creating pages every month to help track things in my daily life. Not only is it fun to flip through months later, but in the moment, it allows you to really let out what’s going on in your head in fun and creative ways! I usually create a theme for the month and craft the pages with things like mood boards, chore charts, my favorite music of the day and really anything that inspires me! Bullet journaling stands as an outlet for me because it reminds me that the daily frustrations aren’t always as big as they seem. I highly recommend trying it out!
2. Journaling
For those of you who love to write, journaling is one of the best ways to let out your inner emotions. In all honesty, whatever you write is just between you and the paper. Feel free to express yourself and all your thoughts. By doing this, you lift whatever is going on in your mind off of your shoulders. Even just writing brief notes allows you to piece together what is happening in your mind.
3. Take a Deep Breath
This one seems pretty self-explanatory. However, it is not overrated. Taking a deep breath allows you to relax for a moment and reevaluate what is frustrating or bothering you. It sets your mind at ease.
4. Talk to a close friend or parent
For some people, we don’t want to put our frustrations and bothers onto someone else. However, someone is always there for you cheering you on. Just like you help them when they need it most, they are there to do the same for you. It is always okay to confide in someone and get their advice on a situation no matter how big or small the problem may be. I think it is helpful to hear someone else’s perspective in order to help reflect.
5. Think off all the positives
This last tip I have is one of my favorites. When we are down, it is often difficult to look on the bright side of things although this proves to be one of the most beneficial things to do. Removing yourself from the situation and focusing on all the good things you have in life or thing that are going your way will put you in a much happier mindset! I often refer to this as a glass half full mentality. Think of the glass half full!