When things are going wrong, it’s easy to feel like you’re to blame. Few friends? Of course, it’s my fault. Work troubles? I’m not trying hard enough. Lonely? I’m just unlovable.
Do you see the problem with this thinking? You’re punishing yourself, instead of giving yourself the comfort and self-care that you need. You deserve self-compassion, not self-flagellation.
This list of tips for finding satisfaction when you’re feeling less than worthy of happiness can help you find your way out of that darkness.
Laugh
Having a laugh is a great mood booster, and it’s really good for you too! It’s really difficult to stay in a sour mood when something’s really tickling your funny bone.
It doesn’t really matter how you do this, whether you watch your favorite comedy show or go out to see your favorite standup comedian. As long as you’re getting those gut-busting laughs going, it’ll really do you some good. And while having a good laugh isn’t gonna solve your problems, it will at least give you some space to reconceptualize the issue later.
Have Fun
Whatever your hobby is, playing video games, practicing a sport, making art - so long as you’re having fun is all that matters in this case. When you’re having fun, you’re doing more than just having fun. It boosts your overall well-being and mental health.
Even though it seems counterintuitive, having some leisure time can actually help boost your productivity along with your mood. It helps this by doing a restock on your energy levels. Even just laying in bed with your eyes closed for a little while can help regain some energy.
Find Your Flow
There are some activities out there that really give you a boost, psychologically. They totally enrapture us and give us a satisfying challenge without adding undue stress.
Everyone’s got this, whether it’s skiing down your favorite slopes to feel the wind whipping past you, or something as seemingly small as beating a tough boss in your favorite video game. Mowing the lawn, solving a big jigsaw puzzle - it could be anything.
Indulge
Sometimes it’s okay to indulge in a little guilty pleasure. Go have a spa day, get your favorite cake from the grocery store, or have a long soak in the tub.
Mindfulness
When finding joy from a new activity just isn’t cutting it, sometimes you need to sit back and enjoy what you’ve already got in front of you. Mindfulness meditation will get you in tune with gratitude, which will help you savor the moment and disconnect from worry.
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