I can't guarantee that these will work for everyone, but over the last few years I've learnt a lot about what makes my life happier and I thought I'd share a few tips in the hope that they may help someone else who suffers from bouts of the melancholies like me.
1 - Stop comparing your life to other people's!
I'm the worst for this when it comes to social media and often have to remind myself that those people I get twinges of jealousy over are only showing carefully chosen, perfectly orchestrated moments of their lives. Be thankful for what you have, not what you don't have.
2 - Treat yo self!
If you see something you really really want, then just treat yourself to it and tell yourself it's because you deserve it. There doesn't have to be a solid reason, sometimes we all just need a little pick me up and a self congratulation for working through this tough old life. But you know, only do it if it isn't going to get you into debt or anything... Those Louboutins can wait girl.
3 - Stop looking for faults in yourself.
Sure we all notice things about ourselves now and again that we don't like, some that we can do someone about and some that we can't, but don't let it grind on you and don't sit there searching for those faults! For every negative thing you spot I bet you can think of three other things about yourself that are awesome! Why not make a secret list of all your wonderfulness to keep for those times when your self confidence has taken a knock?
4 - Get our of that bad relationship NOW!
It seriously breaks my heart when I see people stick in bad relationships. Be it fear of loneliness, fear of change because that relationship has lasted so long, there are lots of reasons why people stay in these relationships but they can be a lot more damaging than you think, if not physically then psychologically. Being with a partner that loves you, respects you, thinks of you as an equal and supports you in all you do is one of the best things ever and everyone deserves it. And if you're not in a relationship then make that person you - respect yourself, love yourself, support yourself and you'll be a happier person!
5 - Cut out the drama!
I always get confused by people who tell me their lives are full of drama because surely this is something that you can control. If there are people in your life that constantly cause problems and drama then you need to confront them about it and talk it through so they understand how their actions are affecting others. Be tactful and polite and don't turn it into an argument - believe me it is possible. And if they turn that into another drama them maybe you just need to cut them out - easier said than done I know but seriously the relief you will feel to not have that burden and constant worry on your shoulders will be worth it.
6 - Sort out your home and your workspace.
I genuinely feel so so so much happier when I have a tidy home and desk and am surrounded by pretty things that I love. Clear out anything that you do not either love looking at or need in your life. Same with your wardrobe, I'm often asked how I always wear nice clothes and the answer is because I got rid of everything I didn't adore! A cluttered home leads to a cluttered mind, so clear that space out! *note to self, remember this and tidy up more often, you know it makes you feel better*
7 - Appreciate the small things.
We can't all be millionaires living a life of luxury so we need to savour everything that makes us happy and grateful, even if it's as small a thing as a nice coffee on a Sunday morning, freshly changed bedsheets or the latest issue of your favourite magazine!
8 - Have a sense of humour!
Life is tough and things don't always work out as you had planned. If you can learn to see the humour in some situations the chances are you'll find them easier to get through. Don't take yourself too seriously and learn to laugh at yourself, no-one wants a sour puss as a friend! Be silly every now and again, I promise it will make you feel better!
1 - Stop comparing your life to other people's!
I'm the worst for this when it comes to social media and often have to remind myself that those people I get twinges of jealousy over are only showing carefully chosen, perfectly orchestrated moments of their lives. Be thankful for what you have, not what you don't have.
2 - Treat yo self!
If you see something you really really want, then just treat yourself to it and tell yourself it's because you deserve it. There doesn't have to be a solid reason, sometimes we all just need a little pick me up and a self congratulation for working through this tough old life. But you know, only do it if it isn't going to get you into debt or anything... Those Louboutins can wait girl.
3 - Stop looking for faults in yourself.
Sure we all notice things about ourselves now and again that we don't like, some that we can do someone about and some that we can't, but don't let it grind on you and don't sit there searching for those faults! For every negative thing you spot I bet you can think of three other things about yourself that are awesome! Why not make a secret list of all your wonderfulness to keep for those times when your self confidence has taken a knock?
4 - Get our of that bad relationship NOW!
It seriously breaks my heart when I see people stick in bad relationships. Be it fear of loneliness, fear of change because that relationship has lasted so long, there are lots of reasons why people stay in these relationships but they can be a lot more damaging than you think, if not physically then psychologically. Being with a partner that loves you, respects you, thinks of you as an equal and supports you in all you do is one of the best things ever and everyone deserves it. And if you're not in a relationship then make that person you - respect yourself, love yourself, support yourself and you'll be a happier person!
5 - Cut out the drama!
I always get confused by people who tell me their lives are full of drama because surely this is something that you can control. If there are people in your life that constantly cause problems and drama then you need to confront them about it and talk it through so they understand how their actions are affecting others. Be tactful and polite and don't turn it into an argument - believe me it is possible. And if they turn that into another drama them maybe you just need to cut them out - easier said than done I know but seriously the relief you will feel to not have that burden and constant worry on your shoulders will be worth it.
6 - Sort out your home and your workspace.
I genuinely feel so so so much happier when I have a tidy home and desk and am surrounded by pretty things that I love. Clear out anything that you do not either love looking at or need in your life. Same with your wardrobe, I'm often asked how I always wear nice clothes and the answer is because I got rid of everything I didn't adore! A cluttered home leads to a cluttered mind, so clear that space out! *note to self, remember this and tidy up more often, you know it makes you feel better*
7 - Appreciate the small things.
We can't all be millionaires living a life of luxury so we need to savour everything that makes us happy and grateful, even if it's as small a thing as a nice coffee on a Sunday morning, freshly changed bedsheets or the latest issue of your favourite magazine!
8 - Have a sense of humour!
Life is tough and things don't always work out as you had planned. If you can learn to see the humour in some situations the chances are you'll find them easier to get through. Don't take yourself too seriously and learn to laugh at yourself, no-one wants a sour puss as a friend! Be silly every now and again, I promise it will make you feel better!
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