How many times does your mood change throughout the day? You get stuck in morning traffic, someone at work says something negative to you and it’s enough to ruin your mood.
Isn’t it funny how one negative comment from someone can completely change your mood sometimes? When I first started my work as a paralegal, every single time a client had a complaint or a bad attitude, I took it personally. Even though it can get a little stressful at times, I like what I do and most of our clients are very nice, polite people. So, if 90% of the people I deal with are not only civilized but also pleasant to deal with, why would I let that 10% who aren’t, get to me?
You can’t always control things that happen to you, but you can always control how you react to them- this is something that I say A LOT- and it’s also something that I tell myself quite often, too. And trust me, we ALL go through difficult situations.
Today, we’ll talk about a few things that will help you stay positive throughout an entire day- regardless of what comes your way.
GET AN EARLY START
Trust me, there’s nothing better than getting an early start to your day. One of the reasons why I love getting up early is that I am never in a rush and this dramatically reduces the possibility of me being stressed first thing in the morning. As I’m writing this post, it’s 6.30 am, I already made breakfast, had a morning stretch and I also tried to walk my dog- but he’s way too lazy in the morning. If it wasn’t for my early mornings, I also don’t think that I’d be able to blog as often as I do. If you want to learn how I became a morning person, see this post.
HAVE A HEALTHY BREAKFAST
Make sure that you eat something light and healthy in the morning. Skipping breakfast is never a good idea- especially if you have a tendency to turn grumpy when you’re hungry. Having something light will also prevent you from feeling too full and sluggish- which can also affect your mood.
MAKE SURE YOUR WORKSPACE IS CLEAN
Whether it’s work or school- make sure that your workspace is clean and organized. This will also reduce your possibility of getting stressed- you won’t be stuck looking for that important paper you need and having clean and organized workspace will also help you be more efficient and productive.
POCKET MEDITATION
This is probably one of my favorite ways of calming down whenever I start feeling anxious. It can be done anywhere, even when you’re driving- as long as you don’t close your eyes. All it takes is one minute of yogic breathing and you will feel happier, instantly. To learn the pocket meditation, see this video by one of my favorite people- Gabby Bernstein.
GET SOME FRESH AIR
If you have the possibility of having lunch outside, do it. Get some fresh air, breath deeply and focus on the present moment. If you can, take a little walk in the fresh air as a mid-day pick-me-up. If you can’t do any of these things, open up a window and let some fresh air in.
FIND SOME TIME JUST FOR YOURSELF
There is nothing wrong with treating yourself, self-love is so very important for your happiness. It doesn’t have to be a full-on spa day, but maybe a 5-minute face mask or a quick workout. Whenever I feel like my day isn’t going too well, I take a little break, go to my favorite coffee shop and get a nice cup of latte or tea. Little things like these are sort of like acts of kindness toward yourself and they will make you feel happier.
Being a positive person doesn’t mean that you’re happy and cheery all the time. It means that rather than letting things get to you, you chose to let go. You chose to forgive (whether it be someone, something or yourself) and move on.
60 Comments
Linda Libra Loca
February 3, 2016 at 10:07 amEarly mornings are my secret weapon as well. If the day starts rushed, I will keep feeling stressed no matter what.
Linda, Libra, Loca: Beauty, Baby and Backpacking
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 7, 2016 at 1:48 pmExactly!
Nameless Gap
February 3, 2016 at 10:15 amGreat post! Being positive is so important! Loved this tips, will try to follow them so they can help me become more positive :)
Paula | http://www.namelessgap.blogspot.com
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 7, 2016 at 1:49 pmThanks so much lovely!
Linda
February 3, 2016 at 10:34 amHonestly, you’re one of my favorite bloggers to read. I really enjoy reading your posts and I found this post to be really helpful. Sometimes, I’ll have a bad day and it’ll just drag on until the next day so thank you so much for this post!
http://www.llindatt.blogspot.com
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 7, 2016 at 1:49 pmAww thanks so much Linda!! You’re so welcome, I’m so happy you liked this post!
Amanda Elizabeth
February 3, 2016 at 10:56 amChoosing to be happy right? Life is so stressful but you have to will yourself into a good mood at all costs. I totally agree about getting up early, you have such an easier time organizing and centering your day that way!
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:05 pmThanks Amanda!
Missy Quigley
February 3, 2016 at 11:14 amThese are great tips! Control the controllables is one of my favorite mantras. Have a great day. Now I am going to clean my workspace!
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:06 pmThanks Missy! :)
Ashley
February 3, 2016 at 11:21 amThis is awesome advice, staying organized has always helped me!
Ashley
http://www.ashleyelizabethbeauty.com
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:06 pm:)
Emerald
February 3, 2016 at 11:25 amSuch a great post!
emerald | Life By Emerald
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:06 pmThanks!
missgetaway
February 3, 2016 at 11:28 amCouldn’t agree more on fact one. Getting up early changes everything for me. Whenever I sleep in I seem to be super unmotivated and uproductive all day long.
Love, kerstin
http://www.missgetaway.com/
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:06 pm:)
MsganaWrites
February 3, 2016 at 12:15 pmYour blogposts are so bae. Keep on creating amazing content babe!
Rebecca Fletcher
February 3, 2016 at 12:29 pmGreat post & great advice! :) I swear by meditation for my anxiety, it has changes my life. X
http://www.beautylifebecca.blogspot.co.uk
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:12 pmThanks Rebecca!
Marilyn
February 3, 2016 at 1:16 pmThese are such great tips! I’m a morning person too and if for whatever reason I end up sleeping late, my whole day just feels thrown off. Breakfast is actually my favorite meal of the day (I can eat it any time lol!). The best feeling is when I get up early, go for my walk and I’m back and showered by 9 am. :) I work from home so I spend a lot of time by myself already but getting outside a few times a week really helps me.
Brooke & Erica
February 3, 2016 at 5:47 pmThat is exactly right – you choose to be happy. Great advice :)
Erica
http://www.pumpsandpushups.com
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:12 pmThanks Erica!
Nereyda Gonzalez
February 3, 2016 at 7:04 pmI’m struggling with the last one. My day is so busy with kids and normal every day life that I find it hard to even find time to watch a tv show. I need to work better to MAKE time. A good breakfast makes such a difference. The one you pictured looks soooo good!
Nereyda│ This Girl Is Obsessed
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:16 pmOh I can only imagine how busy you must be with the kids!
MargaritaChi.co
February 3, 2016 at 7:41 pmSome great tips Paula! I used to take things so personally and as I’ve gotten older, I’ve had to learn to let things go and focus on the good (especially at work!).
I totally agree with your healthy breakfast point – if I start the day off on a bad note, I find it hard to feel great. I have been having oats and almond milk for breakfast with berries. It’s healthy, filling and gives me energy to get through the morning!
Margarita Chi | MARGARITACHI.CO
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:26 pmYes! this is one of the reasons why I love getting older :) I love oats for breakfast, too! Definitely my go-to for a healthy start for the day:)
The Sunday Mode
February 3, 2016 at 7:48 pmBecoming a morning person is always an uphill battle for me. The earliest I can usually roll out of bed willingly is around 8am, I just naturally always feel so much more rejuvenated at night time which makes it difficult to get to sleep earlier.
I do think that keeping a tidy and organised workspace is a great way keep your spirits lifted. If things get crazy around me (even if it’s just on my desk) my mind always feels more frantic.
http://www.thesundaymode.blogspot.com.au
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:30 pmI definitely function a lot better too, when my workspace is clean and organized ;)
Miss Makeup Magpie
February 3, 2016 at 8:08 pmI definitely feel better on the days I wake up early – it just somehow puts me in a better mood xx
Gemma ♥ | Miss Makeup Magpie
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:30 pmSame here Gemma!
Fabulous and Beauty
February 3, 2016 at 8:16 pmOh how I struggle with waking up early, I have been trying to wake up early for so long but my laziness takes me over. I am not going to give up tho. I agree with all of your tips, especially meditation and treating yourself.
Thanks for sharing,
Fahmzz | http://www.fabulousandbeauty.com
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:35 pmKeep trying, I was the same way and never thought of myself as a morning person. Now I’m up by 6 am every day :)
Cielo Fronteras
February 3, 2016 at 8:54 pmGreat tips! Enjoyed reading this post =)
– Cielo
Mermaid in Heels
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:35 pmThanks
ZAUNI.
February 4, 2016 at 12:50 amIn regards to ‘make sure your space is organized’ I read something recently that was along the lines of “never underestimate the power of a clean room, and new linens to improve a negative mood.” I think that’s so true. Ever since I came across that tidbit, whenever I’m feeling glum, uninspired, or just unproductive, I take a minute to clean up the space around me. It truly does change your perspective :)
hellozauni.com
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:37 pmIt really does! I love having an empty sink in the kitchen and don’t even get me started of fresh linens! Instant mood lifter :)
TOUCH OF GUCCI
February 4, 2016 at 5:47 amGreat post! I certainly agree with the ‘early start’. If I sleep in or wake up late, I feel like I’ve just wasted the whole day! x
TOUCHOFGUCCI // BLOGLOVIN
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:38 pmThanks!
laura anne
February 4, 2016 at 6:13 amThankyou. I really needed this post today as I’m really having a down day :( xxxx
LAURA THINKS ABOUT BLOG
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:38 pmAww you’re welcome! Hope you’re doing better!
Kay (shoesandglitter)
February 4, 2016 at 6:36 amThis is a really helpful and inspiring post, darling! I’ll be the first to admit – I stress out way too easily. I always let even the smallest things get to me! But I have actually been following some of your tips and they really do help. Especially getting up early in the morning… I used to always get up way too late for work, which always ended up in stressful mornings and bad mood. Now, I get up way earlier than I need to. It’s nice having a little bit of time to yourself in the mornings, with some good breakfast and a cup of tea. :) <3 Hope you're having a fab week so far, hun. x
Kay
http://shoesandglitter.com
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:49 pmThanks so much Kay! I used to stress out about every single little thing too, I know how annoying and overwhelming it can be. I have to say that getting up early has made a huge difference for me too, it’s definitely sets a nice, positive tone for the rest of the day :)
Dagmara Klich
February 4, 2016 at 7:34 amYour posts are always so inspiring, Paula! I agree that if I’m rushing in the morning and getting late I’m in a very bad mood, and I tend to shout at my boys when they’re being slow, forgetting that they’re only small kids. Definitely need to start getting up a bit earlier :) x
Mummy’s Beauty Corner
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:50 pmAw thank you so much Dagmara! Omg I hate being in a rush, it can definitely put you in a bad mood haha ;)
Alina
February 4, 2016 at 9:45 amThis happens to me all the time, I start my day off feeling inspired and positive but half way through if something happens I can turn so negative, so these tips are really helpful and something I need to work on x
Beauty with charm
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:56 pmSo happy that you found these helpful Alina! And trust me, I know the feeling! :)
Biana Perez
February 4, 2016 at 10:40 amI can’t tell you how many times I go to work so happy and then something happens and my mood turns sour – thanks for these suggestions – getting a workout in at lunch usually helps me! xo, Biana – BlovedBoston
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 12:56 pmOhh, I know how that feels Biana! That’s awesome that you can get a workout in during lunch!
Ela BellaWorld
February 4, 2016 at 2:20 pmI have to leave home around 6:30 am during week days, so I definitely have an early morning but my mornings don’t include any of these things you said. Since I am not happy with my job, it is really hard to stay positive and I am the grumpiest person most of the time. Pocket meditation sounds like a great idea, I should really consider it :)
Ela BellaWorld
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 1:00 pmOhh so sorry to hear that you’re not too happy with your job at the moment Ela. Trust me, I know how it feels to be in that position.
Nazlıgül
February 5, 2016 at 7:48 amI definitely agree with waking up early. But of course, I sleep a lot and when I wake up in the middle of the day, it’s just exhausting. Great tips!
Kisses,xx
Nazlıgül | on my own way
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 1:08 pmThanks Love!
augustinra
February 6, 2016 at 2:48 amI also feel happy and it makes me think that I would have a great and productive day ahead when I wake up early specially when I get enough sleep. :)
Augustin Ra | Indie Spirit
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 1:09 pmGetting an early start is definitely a good way to…… have a good day :)
augustinra
February 11, 2016 at 10:03 pmI totally agree with that. Have a nice day! :)
Samileen
February 7, 2016 at 12:45 amTotally agree with you on getting up early, and I really need to strive to become a morning person, as much as I try to be one, I always find my self getting late in the morning and stressing over things.
Sam || Beautydetour
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 1:10 pmOh it took me years to get used to waking up early. Years a go, I’d only give myself about half an hour to get ready and leave the house. It feels so much better to do everything at your own pace, rather than rushing all the time. :)
Paula @ thirteenthoughts.com
February 8, 2016 at 1:02 pmI love that pocket meditation- I use it all the time!
Gyudy
February 10, 2016 at 9:18 amI completely agree! An early start makes you head out the door with an amazing feeling of accomplishment :) xx
Gyudy @ Gyudy’s Notes Of Beauty
Nishant Raj
May 3, 2019 at 12:50 pmIt’s really worth to read that post and so many good things to share here , Thanks For ThatPositive And be Happy