Midterms are just around the corner, the weather is getting gloomier, and school is becoming too much to handle, too fast! It may feel like everything is piling up on you and is overbearing, but there’s no reason you shouldn’t be able to keep a positive and hopeful attitude. There are several ways we can all work to brighten our moods. You have to find what works best for you, so here are a few tips you can use to brighten up your attitude.
Spend time with those you love
You can surround yourself with the people you love. Good company is always able to change your mood—there’s no medicine like laughter! You can also depend on your loved ones to listen to and support you. It’s completely acceptable to depend on your loved ones to be stepping stones in your journey to happiness as long as they’re not your sole outlet for it.
Manage factors you can control
Think of things in your life that you can control, and make a list for yourself of things that you’re able to manage. I know with everything going on in your life it may feel like you’ve lost control or matters have slipped out of your hands, but even acknowledging a simple factor in your life that you’re able to take care of can snap you out of a sombre state and reassure you that you’re capable!
Visit nature
For most people, spending time in the outdoors is a great reset. Going out into nature for a quick hike or exploring scenic routes near you can improve your mood and your current mental state. You’ll be able to practice mindfulness, rest your brain away from the pressures of the technological world, and have a brief escape from the obstacles in your life.
Perform acts of kindness
Practice being kind! Simple acts of service or reassurance can make a person’s day. You never know what others are dealing with, and by conducting a simple positive action not only are you gaining good karma, but you’re also spreading positivity which is a major step in being able to surround yourself with good vibes.
Monitor your media consumption
Control your information intake. I know it may be difficult with the surge of news that is constantly being thrown our way through the media, but it’s important to attempt to control what you’re being exposed to. Social media can easily influence your mood and present a negative focus. Everything we’re exposed to reflects on our emotions whether we notice it or not, so it’s important to take control of our media consumption and avoid constant negativity online.
The gist of it all is to surround yourself with positive outlets through friends, family, tasks, hobbies, and actions. Remember to be conscious of the environment and situations you’re letting yourself immerse in. You can always find a way to choose positivity—before anything else being positive is a mindset.