It really is the little things that count. Whether it’s going out for your favorite meal or catching up on your Netflix queue, doing little things to treat yourself can be an easy way to keep your spirits up and stay motivated during these last few grey days of spring. The end of a semester can be hectic, stressful, and sometimes it may seem like there are not enough hours in a day. However, when you’re at your most blah, take some of these small steps to combat negativity and brighten up your day.
A little bit goes a long way –
1. Go ahead and upgrade to that 20oz. extra hot, no whip, non-fat, half-caf, caramel macchiato with extra caramel on an early morning (or a late night in some cases).
2. Pick out a Gerber daisy from New Seasons in your favorite color – for about two dollars you can brighten your room and make your own day.
3. Give yourself a mani-pedi in a bright color.
4. Make your to-do list on beautiful stationary with hand-drawn doodles, flowers, hearts, etc. So much more fun and manageable now!
5. Workout – whether it’s a 10 mile run or some calf raises while you dry your hair, just enough to get some endorphins flowing.
6. Upload a new profile picture. Come on – it’s pretty satisfying to have a cute picture to present to the Facebook world.
7. Smile – it really does make a difference in your daily attitude!
8. Make a “Bucket List” and try to actually cross an item off.
9. Meditate – even if it’s just for 10 minutes, that time for yourself can do wonders.
10. Donate a few dollars to a charity or cause that you really care about. Paying it forward is an easy way to lift your spirits and also make someone else’s day.
11. Turn off your phone – take time to unplug and recharge.
12. Call or send a message to an old friend or family member – just to let them know you’re thinking about them.
13. Make a Pinterest board filled with things that make you smile.
14. DIY a fun new project.
15. Make a playlist full of your favorite tunes and upload it to your iPod for the walk to class.
16. Flip through a magazine with a cup of tea or hot chocolate.
17. Handwrite and mail a letter.
18. Look through old pictures – those old Myspace shots or awkward prom photos from high school are sure to make you laugh and bring back some good memories.
19. Bring your best friend or significant other their favorite coffee drink, cookie, movie, etc. Brightening their day is sure to brighten yours as well.
20. Wear your favorite dress, your cutest shoes, whatever makes you feel great.
21. Volunteer your time with an organization or cause that you feel passionate about.
22. Play a round of “if the internet was my closet” and put together outfits on Polyvore.com or window-shop online at your favorite store sites.
23. Watch a funny video on Youtube – kittens, laughing babies, dancing proposals, etc.
24. Spice up your go-to makeup routine with some winged eye-liner or red lipstick.
25. Or – skip your regular makeup routine and give your face the day off! Your skin will thank you.
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26. Treat yourself to a Commons cookie (or three…)
27. Channel Audrey Hepburn from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and pile on your best costume jewelry.
28. Quit a bad habit and start a good one.
29. Make your bed – you’ll be happy you did later that night.
30. Take a multivitamin or a vitamin D supplement – small steps to good health!
31. Get takeout or dinner from the Commons to-go and eat it picnic style with your friends and a favorite movie.
32. Wear your favorite/fanciest underwear. No one but you will know which makes it all the better.
33. Try out a new hairstyle.
34. Wake up early enough to eat a complete breakfast.
35. Compliment someone.
36. Go to bed early – you’ll get more done the next day if you’re well rested.
37. Tell someone how thankful you are for them.
38. Stand up straight – walk tall and you’ll exude confidence.
39. Print some of your favorite photos and hang the happy memories around your room.
40. Write a positive affirmation on your mirror or on a slip of paper to put in your pocket – little reminders to stay positive and be happy.
41. Google feminist Ryan Gosling. Or just Ryan Gosling in general.
42. Eat a piece of really good chocolate.
43. Make an inspiration board.
44. Spritz on your favorite perfume – who needs a special occasion??
45. Check your horoscope – even if you don’t believe in them, it is always a little fun to see what’s forecasted.
46. Glitter. Do or wear anything with glitter.
47. Treat yourself to a new bottle of nail polish, lip gloss, or lotion – just something cheap and fun.
48. Make a list of long and short term goals.
49. Take your class notes with a glitter gel pen.
50. Plan a night out with your best friends – having something to look forward to makes getting through a hectic week so much easier!
Sources:
http://www.lessordinaryliving.com/blog/25-instant-ways-to-be-happier-today/
http://aikensapproach.com/happy-right-now
http://glamour.com