10 Tips to Boost Your Mood

It happens to everyone once in a while. You’re in a bad mood and looking for a way to turn it around. There are many ways to improve your mood, boost your happiness, and keep stress in check. Try one of these 10 suggestions to help you get a jump-start on feeling better.

1. LIGHTEN UP

Pull back the curtains and get some sunshine when you wake up. A University of Toronto study found that people who are exposed to the most light, especially in the morning, are in better moods all day long and get a better night’s sleep. Don’t let a cloudy day stand in the way. Researchers also found that an hour of bright indoor light can boost your outlook on life.

2. GET MOVING

Get out of that chair and get moving. Countless studies show that exercise helps our brain release endorphins, which make us feel excited and satisfied. Any fitness activity is good for your mood, but you can enhance those benefits by taking it outside. An outdoor 20-minute walk twice a week can do wonders for your mood. Researchers also found that people who exercise outdoors feel more energetic and are more likely to maintain the routine. In other words, the more you exercise, the better your mood.

3. GET ORGANIZED

Once you do head back to work, take a few minutes to get organized. Clear the clutter from your desk or work area. That mess can make you lose focus, feel overwhelmed and disorganized, and slow your productivity. An organized environment helps you concentrate on the work at hand.

4. BE A MUSIC LOVER

Listening to music can help improve your mood, lower blood pressure, and reduce stress. The right music can change attitudes, so load your MP3 player with songs that make you happy. And don’t be afraid to sing along. One study found that singing may actually improve immunity by increasing antibodies that fight sickness. Remember that the next time you belt out a few tunes in the shower.

5. TRY SOMETHING NEW

New experiences do more than broaden your horizons. They improve your outlook on life. Whether it’s travel to a different part of the world, a dance class, or a new food, new experiences give you confidence to try new things.

6. SMALL GOALS

Set a small goal for yourself every day. Too many complex tasks seem to drag on forever. Everyone needs some closure at the end of the day so they don’t feel like they are running in an endless circle.

7. PICTURE THIS

Take a few seconds to look at some of your favorite pictures. They can be anything from baby pictures to favorite vacation photos. Great memories will help boost your mood whenever you are feeling down. Save some of these pictures on your phone or computer for a quick pick-me-up.

8. HELP OTHERS

A good deed goes a long way in improving your mood. Research has found that volunteering makes people happier because it helps them appreciate the good things in their own lives. Whether it is donating money, joining a charity walk, or volunteering at a community food bank, helping others helps you feel good about yourself.

9. GO OFF-LINE

Take a break from all of your electronic toys and tools. Log off from everything once in a while. Staring at computer, tablet or smart phone screens can drain your energy even as you sit around all day. Let your mind unwind and relax, especially before going to bed.

10. REWARD YOURSELF

Finally, find something that makes you happy and allow yourself time to enjoy the break. It doesn’t have to be long. Less than a half hour with a friend, reading a book, or watching a guilty-pleasure television show may be all that it takes. If it brings you joy and gives you something to look forward to every day, it makes life a lot easier.