According to psychologists, this is the way to get out of a bad mood
Does anyone recognize this: being so grumpy that you make yourself even grumpier? It's one of my greatest talents when I'm in a bad mood and I find it quite difficult to talk myself back into a cheerful state. Honestly, if you’re doubled over with stomach pain after a night of bad sleep (because yes, it's that time again) trying to survive a trip to the supermarket while that man in front of you (who is blissfully unaware) really can't walk any slower, don't you just feel like exploding? It's understandable that sometimes you're in a mega bad mood, but it's not very pleasant. That's why psychologists share their tips to get out of your bad mood as quickly as possible, so you can still enjoy your day.
Write it off
Writing in a journal is a top tool to help you feel better. Start by writing down five things you like about yourself, then write down five things you are grateful for in your life, and then five good things that have happened in the last 24 hours, no matter how small (for example: I am grateful for my morning coffee). Finally, write down five things you are looking forward to. Bet you’ll feel a lot better afterwards?
Call your best friend
Or your mother, sister, or aunt; as long as it's someone you feel comfortable with. Pour your heart out, express all your feelings, and listen to the advice from the people who know you best. They are often right more than you think.
Meditate
The tool to switch off your mind is meditation. When we are in a bad mood, it's very easy to fall into a negative spiral and think of all the worst-case scenarios. So take a moment of silence to reset those thoughts. It doesn't have to be difficult; just taking a moment to focus on your breathing can be enough.
Dance it out
Grey’s Anatomy fans know what I’m talking about: just dance your bad mood away. Turn up your favorite music to volume ten and shake off all the bad vibes.
Spend time on self-care
Sometimes we just need to do something for ourselves. A moment of self-care can help you let go of the day and feel relaxed again. For example, take a long bath, light some candles, and pamper your skin with a nice mask. I'm almost sure you'll have completely forgotten that slow man in the supermarket afterwards.
Make fun plans
Do you know that feeling when you’ve planned a vacation, and you’re so happy and excited that you can hardly wait? Exactly, at such moments you really don’t have time to let your bad mood take over. Now, I’m not saying you should flee to Curaçao every time you’re in a bad mood (if only that were possible), but this shows that when we plan something fun, we can shift our thoughts in a positive way.
Visualize a better day
Okay, this might sound a bit airy-fairy, but it really works. Close your eyes and imagine that you are experiencing your perfect day. Take in every detail, every scent, and every feeling. Live the day from start to finish. This is a great exercise to manifest your perfect day, give it a try.
Bake something delicious
Right: I’m skipping this one. The only thing I’ve ever successfully created in my oven is a small fire. But baking something delicious (if you can do this) can immediately put you in a good mood. Just think about it. Your whole house smells nice and you have something tasty to eat. Need inspiration? Try this hot milk cake once.
Image: The Big Short 2015, Margot Robbie
