ten ways to improve an off day // a list

1. Read some Psalms
Sometimes, it's better to skip reading Leviticus and read some Psalms instead. 

2. Listen to happy music.
Some of my favorite happy music include  The Vitamin String Quartet, Frank Sinatra and Michel Buble, and Jadon Lavik.

3. Drink more coffee. (or whatever you're into.)
I usually try to limit my coffee consumption to just the morning before 11:00, because I don't really need it after that and I will just end up acting like the squirrel from Over The Hedge and then deteriorating into a shaky mess if I drink it all day. But some cold, dark afternoons I just really need to give myself permission to have another cup of coffee!

4. Make a list of things you're grateful for.
 I started keeping a gratitude journal after reading One Thousands Gifts and getting inspired. And it helps a lot on days when I am sad, or just down because of the weather. (Please tell me I am not the only person who struggles with it being dark, depressing and cold outside!)

5. Bake something yummy.
Like these Lemon scones with lemon glaze that I made this afternoon. Because for some reason lemon is such a happy flavor to me.

6. Be productive.
Write a To-do list and try to complete as much as possible. For weirdos like me, the act of crossing something off of a list is such a rewarding feeling that it literally makes me giddy sometimes. 

7. Curl up with a good book
Right now I am reading The Reason: How I discovered a Life Worth Living by Lacey Sturm. Its her autobiography from a abused, suicidal teen to a redeemed, forgiven woman. But for just a feel good book on an off day? Christy by Cathrine Marshall, or Anne of Green Gables is always a good idea.

 

8. Do something that makes you feel pretty.
Curl your hair, apply some happy lipstick (this morning I put on barbie pink. ;), paint your nails, wear heels! Its such a silly thing, but sometimes doing something extra will really help improve your mood.


9. Do something happy for someone else.
It gets your focus off of your hard day, and brightens someone else's. Pay for the person behind you at Starbucks, paint your sisters nails, send a quick text to someone you miss, tell someone "I love you!" put together a random email of ridiculous pins and quotes for your bestie, find something to do for someone you love. :)


10. Eat Ice cream
This one is from three of my little siblings, but basically it's what I would say too. Ice cream is always a good idea. :)