5 simple tricks to keep you positive all day

There are some days when you wake up with a huge smile plastered on your face. You’re in a good, no jovial mood, and you don’t know where it came from. But you don’t care because it’s a great feeling.

Secretly, we wish all mornings were like that.

But then there are other days when you just don’t feel like getting out of bed. Either you had a bad dream, or you’re simply depressed. Something just doesn’t feel right.

Positive minds create positive lives, somebody once said. This means if you have happy thoughts, you will automatically have a good day. And the opposite is sadly true.

If these initial negative feelings don’t leave, you know they will probably rule your day. Meaning a dark heavy cloud will follow you wherever you go. You will be moody and grumpy towards everyone. And you will most likely have a terrible day.

That is unless you do something about it.

As a person suffering from depression, being and staying positive is not an easy feat. In fact, many times you just want to swim in the negative thoughts and feelings because you don’t know how to get out. That’s where this post comes in.

Here are 5 simple tricks you can use every single day to stay positive and become happier.

1. Meditation

One of the easiest ways to have a good day is by starting it well. That’s what meditation does for me.

Every morning, I start the day by meditating for 10 minutes. All you have to do is to sit upright or cross-legged on your bed and focus on your breathing. Your mind will get distracted but you have to bring it back like an errant child. 

I’m sure you’ve heard that meditation calms your body and leaves you relaxed. It also quiets down those million thoughts you get in the morning. Sort of like giving you a fresh new page to start your day on.

Through self-reflection, I become aware of any negative feelings, and it’s easier to let them go.

Oh, and those days I decide to skip it because I’m feeling lazy late, I usually pay the full price. The morning grumpy mood becomes harder to shake off, and I have to resort to the other hacks on this list to make me feel better. So why not avoid all that hustle, and begin the day on a tranquil note.

PS: If you’re interested in getting into meditation, I’d highly recommend trying this app called Headspace. It’s the perfect guide for any beginner as it directs you on exactly what to do during those 10 minutes. And Andy, your personal meditation coach, has such a soothing voice!

2. Music

Music is said to be the soundtrack to our lives. When we’re happy we like to listen to happy songs. When we’re scared or lonely, it’s somber music that appeals.

And sometimes, music understands us like no one else can. That’s why it’s such a powerful mood therapy.

Like a drug, it can make you forget your problems – without the annoying hangover. So whenever I’m feeling down, I plug in my earphones and blast my favorite music into my ears. And almost immediately, my spirit comes alive with joy. 

You can always turn to music when you need a friend. Uplifting music will encourage you when you’re facing a difficult time. Or just make you feel happier.

It is your comforter, therapist, and cheerleader all in one.

3. Exercise

Did you know that engaging in a physical activity, even one between the sheets, releases endorphins? These natural chemicals make us feel better about ourselves, and our bodies in the long run (if you didn’t know now you know).

As long it’s not too strenuous, doing most forms of exercise definitely improves your mood. Sure, you may feel tired after 30 minutes or less, but you will also feel lighter. Because all your worries will fall to the ground as you do those planks and push-ups.

That’s why whenever I need an energy or mood lift, I usually turn to my favorite easygoing exercises. Dancing is always fun even if you have two left feet. Don’t worry, nobody is judging your body movements… err I mean dance moves.

So when you’re feeling down, just get on the best treadmill or go for a jog (if you don’t own one/ love the outdoors). It truly works wonders.

4. Talking to someone

Never underestimate the power of human connection. I mean never. It can turn some of the worst of days into the best. 

Sharing your worries with someone you trust can help you feel better about your situation. That’s because you find someone to relate to and they can show you a different perspective you didn’t think about.

So if you’re feeling lost, talk to someone positive. If you’re sad, talk to someone funny. Like Biko, hehe. You will laugh so hard your troubles will run away.

And if you’re feeling lonely, talk to someone understanding. Basically just find someone to talk to. They will really light up your day, and not the same way watching your favorite movie or series will.

And if you don’t have anyone to talk to, you can always talk to me.

5. Gratitude

Being grateful is probably the most effective way to staying positive. This is because gratitude is one of the secrets to happiness.

You see, being unhappy usually comes from focusing on what’s wrong, rather than what’s going right. Gratitude helps you change that perspective, and look at life in a brighter light. 

 It isn’t what you have, or who you are, or where you are, or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about. – Dale Carnegie

Whenever I notice that I’m feeling negative, I practice gratitude by recalling at least three things I’m thankful for. To be honest, it can be quite difficult to even think of one thing when you’re down in the dumps. So I usually resort to the small but important things.

First, I thank the Universe for having a stable house and school. Not everyone has a proper shelter or education you know.

Number two is a specific physical sense or ability I own. Whether it’s hearing, seeing, or even the ability to walk. There are so many people who cannot see gorgeous sunsets and blue skies, or hear beautiful music and the voices of their favorite people. These are things we easily take for granted but to me, they are sort of special abilities that I feel extremely lucky to have.

And lastly, I thank the Universe for someone important in my life. It could be my mother or a close friend. Usually, it’s my mother – who is also a good friend. Okay enough about my mum, you all know I love her.

At the end of the day, you can make a list of at least three things you are grateful for. I call it the “what went well” list. Making this one is way easier since there’s always something positive about a day, even when it felt like crap. Silver linings.

And by reflecting on the good stuff, you are reminded that life doesn’t suck that much.

What tricks to do you use to stay happy all day? I’d love to borrow some from you.

Here’s to a life full of positive thoughts and happy smiles.