4 Steps to Kick the Winter Blues
We all feel down at times. Whether it’s a case of the Winter gray-skies-blues, post Holiday let-down, or just feeling the blues for some unknown reason, these four steps to kick the blues will help you cheer up and feel better
1. Check Your Intent to Cheer Up
Strange as it may seem, sometimes we feel sad or down and don’t really want to cheer up immediately. Sometimes it’s helpful to simply remain a bit sad for awhile, even if the cause of sadness is illusive.
It’s OK to want to remain down for a short time as long as you don’t wallow in it too long. Acknowledge your feelings and if possible explore the cause. Stay with the sad feelings for awhile, but do so with the intent to move on as quickly as you can. When you’re ready to perk up, move on to step 2.
2. Shift Your Thinking
Though at times it may seem that your thoughts run uncontrollably through your mind, remember that you are in charge of your thoughts. You can’t be cheery if you’re dwelling on sad thoughts.
Shift your thinking to more positive things. There are always positives in any situation, so look for them, focus on them, and savor them. As the Nike folks advised, “Just do it.”
3. Locate a Better Feeling
Our feelings are a reflection of our thoughts and behaviors. Once you’re thinking of the positives in your life—think “count your blessings”—notice that you are feeling a bit better.
Consciously reflect on three good things in your life, any three good things. These can be as basic as having enough to eat and a place to live. Perhaps someone gave you a nice compliment or a warm smile. Maybe you’re reading a good book or can recall a funny story.
Focus your thoughts on these three good things in your life and notice that you’re feeling better.
4. Acknowledge Your Feelings and Repeat Step 3.
When you notice that you feel better think of three more good things in your life. Even if you’re going through a tough time, you’re probably growing stronger as a result. That’s a positive.
Continue with this process as you ratchet up your feelings toward more and more positives. Notice that you’re feeling better, perhaps not jump-up-and-down joyous, but better. That’s good enough, remembering that you were feeling down and now you feel better.
You’ve just mastered the process under your control for becoming happier.
More Happiness Actions
There are lots more ways you can help yourself to greater happiness. See How to Cheer Up and Add Finding Happiness to a Personal Growth Plan for even more ways to kick the blues and cheer up.
