LIFE

Sometimes, we have days where nothing seems to go right. Maybe you sat through three impossible exams, or everyone seemed to be arguing, or all of the people we did *not* want to see made surprise appearances. Other times, we might get upset without any particular reason. When that happens, it's important to take some time to cheer yourself up—and here are 10 easy ways to do just that.

1. Blast some music and have a dance party
All you need is a computer or phone and some space for moving around! Nothing seems so bad with music playing, and it can be any kind that you like, whether that's country or R&B or pop—whatever!

2.  Get out your old diary
Writing down everything that went wrong throughout your day can be very therapeutic. Then, taking a step back and reading your words to yourself helps you realize that your problems weren't as horrible as you first thought.

3.  Watch a happy movie
It's impossible to overstate the benefits of getting lost in a narrative, and seeing the faces of familiar actors that you love! Maybe for you, that's Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant in Notting Hill, or Dove Cameron and Sofia Carson in Descendants.

4. Focus on something productive
Wallowing in self-pity never helps as much as you think it will. Have you been meaning to organize the books that are scattered around your room? Or maybe your little brother has been begging for you to take him somewhere? There's no time like the present! Crossing items off your to-do list is incredibly satisfying, and will make you feel accomplished.

5. If it's a nice day, take a walk outside
Getting in some light exercise and enjoying nature will help anyone feel better.

6. If it's not a nice day, cuddle up inside with an engrossing book  
Books help us take our minds off of our own lives, and throw us into a different world. Soon, you'll forget all about what was troubling you.

7. If you play an instrument, get in some practice time 
When you're focusing on reading music and getting all the notes right, you won't be thinking about the problems of the day; you'll be channeling that energy into your instrument, and your parents will probably be happy that you're practicing!

8. Speaking of parents, try talking to them about it  
Parents can surprise us sometimes with their great advice. If you think it would be good to vent and tell someone about your awful day, why not let them try to help you?

9. Take a warm bath 
Getting clean makes everyone feel better, and soaking in warm water is one of the best ways to relax.

10. Find some games to play
Whether you can convince your siblings to get out your Scrabble and Monopoly boards or you like to play chess online, focusing on doing your best in a low-stakes game can help you shake off your worries. Win or lose, you'll have fun, and you might even learn a new skill!

What do you do to feel better when you've had a bad day? Tell us about it in the comments!

by Bridget Curley | 3/15/2019