Everyone gets sad. Everyone gets upset. Repeat that to yourself a few times, in your head (or out loud it doesn’t really matter). But, just know in your head and in your heart that EVERYONE feels this way sometimes.

This feeling doesn’t last too long (most times) BUT, sometimes you get sad or upset for a lot longer than you expect. Sometimes it’s something no longer in your control; no warnings, no explanations. It creeps up on you quickly and unexpectedly. I’ve had many encounters with “funks” and I’ve had many times where I was confused as to how to see the silver lining through the fog, when you’re convinced there is none. Over the past few months, I’ve acquired QUITE the list of tips and tricks to get out of these moods and have selected my personal top 10 ways to get out, get up, and get happy again.

1. Do whatever it is that makes you the happiest:

There is no set label to this, whatever it is that makes YOU happy, go do it. For me, it’s music. When I get in these moods its hard for me to think clearly at times and I almost lose a sense of self, but no matter what state my mind is in, I know that when my mind is fully immersed in music, I’m in my happy place. Take time to take time for yourself doing what makes you happy. Even if it is plucking piano notes at the piano, painting a picture, taking a picture, or writing. Do it and do it well, especially when you aren’t feeling your best.

2. Put on a “feelin good” playlist

The power of music is INCREDIBLE. Listen to your old high school playlist, listen to your old middle school playlist, listen to whatever the heck you have on Spotify or whatever music playlist you have and just jam. Forget about everything else. Maybe even go on a cruise with the windows down and drive.

3. PUT DOWN YOUR PHONE (or at least put it on airplane mode)

Social media is an active presence one cannot seem to escape. When I get in these funks I know that I personally can get into a very negative head space easily. Comparing my own life to other’s lives through Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, or whatever other social media platforms you use. Just remind yourself that what you are seeing online is through a rose colored lens. You’re seeing exactly what people WANT you to see, you’re not seeing their struggles or hardships; your seeing their half naked, EDITED bodies all over instagram, their toes in the sand on Facebook, and their “don’t worry, be happy” captions. everyone. No one wants to admit when they’re struggling, especially over social media. So please, when you’re in this headspace, (and maybe even when you’re not), take a break from the comparison game of social media. Put your phone on airplane mode and enjoy wherever you are right now.

4. Go outside

Going on hikes, going to the beach, or just going in your backyard and being present in nature is incredible. Surrounding yourself with all things living and breathing is an important reminder to give yourself to do.

“Keep your face always towards the sunshine.” – Walt Whitman

“The best thing one can do when it’s raining is to let it rain.” – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

5. Practice gratitude

Recently, I’ve been journaling every morning 10 things I am grateful for. I’ve written these 10 things down for about a few months now, and when I’m in a funk or having a bad day, it is a great reminder to myself when my days aren’t so bright. This list doesn’t have to be some gigantic, overwhelming thing you’re obligated to do every morning, it should come naturally. Be grateful for this life you have, be grateful for the smell of coffee brewing in your kitchen, be grateful the sun came out today, write down anything that makes your heart grow a bit bigger.

6. Allow yourself to feel: if you’re in a bad mood, you’re allowed to feel this way. You should never apologize for how you feel. 

“The best thing one can do when it’s raining is to let it rain.” -Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Whether you feel this way for a reason or not, you feel it. Just allow yourself to feel whatever it is your feeling. And no, you do not need to apologize to anyone or to yourself for feeling in a bad mood.

7. Workout

Sometimes when I get in this mindset, it’s almost difficult to just do every day tasks let alone go to the gym. But one thing I’ve learned is, you will NEVER regret a workout after doing it. Not once have I ever felt terrible after going to the gym.

8. Cook a home cooked meal 

I don’t care if you’re cooking a gourmet five course dinner or a PB&J sandwich with curly fries, cook yourself a nice home cooked meal. Make yourself something you’ve been craving and enjoy every last bite. Take time to make whatever it is that you’re cooking and get out of your comfort zone. I’ve found that looking up recipes on pintrest for healthy dinners is a great distraction if I’m in a funk. Cooking the meals also serves as a great way to focus on the moment and enjoy treating yourself.

9. Power naps = power moves

After trying the above steps, if you still feel crappy, take a nap. Let your mind relax and your head unwind. Sometimes waking up after a power nap I feel so much more refreshed and less groggy. My headspace feels clearer and lighter, it’s like finding your glasses after a few days of going without them, you see life better.

10. Surround yourself with people you love 

You are who you hang out with, so choose your inner circle wisely. The best way to get out of a funk is to be surrounded by people who want to see you do well in all aspects of life. People who support and respect who you are, no matter what headspace you’re in.

Get up, get out, and get happy.