How to Turn Around a Bad Day: A Step By Step Guide

Simply + Fiercely

Like most people with an interest in personal development, I’ve always been fond of a good inspirational quote—and lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about a favourite: “Choose your mood.” – source unknown.

It’s a simple but powerful reminder that, while things may not always go exactly to plan, we always have a choice about how to react when life throws us a curveball.

Challenging days are inevitable, but how we react is up to us. We can choose to give in to the negative voices in our heads or we can take steps to turn things around.

It can happen so quickly; one minute you’re okay, then something doesn’t work out quite as planned, and the next thing you know your mood is snowballing downhill.

STEP 1: RECOGNISE WHAT’S HAPPENING

Take a few deep breaths and try to forget about everything but the present moment. Don’t think about what’s gone wrong, don’t think about what you have left to do, don’t even think about trying to turn around your mood.

STEP 2: PRESS PAUSE

After all, bad days aren’t always a bad thing. On some days, I just need to sit with whatever is upsetting me so that I can make peace with it. There’s nothing wrong with that.

STEP 3: MAKE THE CHOICE

If you’re short on time, it could be something as simple as applying a fresh coat of lipstick or making a hot cup of coffee. If you’ve got more time (or if you’re having an especially bad day!) you might want to take a shower or go for a run.

STEP 4: RESET

Make a conscious effort to be intentional with your time and energy and to make today a good day by doing something that feels good.

STEP 5: MOVE FORWARD

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