We All Have Moments (4 Things to Help With the “Not So Good” Moments)

This week, for the first time in a while, it didn’t feel like a chore to smile. While leaves are changing and stores are exploding with Christmas items, for many, this is the most wonderful time of the year. For some, it is the most difficult. And I think I may have joined the “some”. Since the end of my marriage, I can usually expect a moment of feeling down during this time of year. The constant reminders of what should have been are in constant tug of war with what is. My idea of the perfect holidays looked like wrapping gifts the night before as parents as we prepare to see the excitement on our son’s face on Christmas morning. Taking trips to be with family for Thanksgiving, and watching our son have an opportunity to play with his cousins. During this most recent moment, life has also decided to simultaneously throw me into a game of dodge ball. Work stress. Duck! Bedroom roof leak turned roof falling in. Dodge! Coparenting. Duck! This moment had lasted a bit too long.

But this week, perhaps the moment has ended or maybe just for a few days.  I honestly don’t know; but what I do know, is I have been putting in major work to climb out of the moment. In these “feeling down” moments, it takes daily effort to attempt to just feel like you. Maybe you have felt down in the past or maybe you are literally in a moment while you are reading this. It is ok and I want to share some things that have helped me move through and at least made it easier to smile.

Get a Routine (And stick with it)

Without a plan, it is almost impossible to stop your mind from wandering and with wandering comes over thinking. Lots of over thinking! My white board and my planner are everything. I’ve learned to create daily schedules and “to do” lists both at home and at work to help fill the empty spaces. Shifting the focus to completing tasks creates a sense of purpose and drive to get up and go daily. Find time to incorporate prayer, meditation, exercise, reading, writing or your choice of self care. Your schedule does not need to only be filled with the things you have to do but don’t forget to add some of the things you just want to do.

Give Yourself Props

Nothing feels better than checking something off a “to do” list. And as you are checking things off, don’t forget to take time to be proud. Have you congratulated yourself on getting out of the bed today? Or on leaving the house on time? Stop and do it. No matter how silly this seems, it is so necessary. We spend far too much time focusing on all the things we have not yet accomplished and not enough time on the things we have.  

Positivity Overload

What makes you feel positive? What makes you happy? I have adopted the idea of filling my day with those things. Most mornings start with an online sermon or motivational speech followed by some feel good music. I am constantly looking for positive and uplifting quotes and even comedy for some laughter. It has become especially important to me to surround myself with those who have positive conversation. Because honestly, I need all the good vibes.

When You Look Good, You Feel Good

While I have not committed to cleaning my closet yet, I have at least started moving things around to create some cute outfits. Spend time focusing on choosing things to wear, doing your hair and even a skin care routine. Buy something new for yourself, something different. Take some cute pictures and remind yourself just how beautiful you are. You deserve to feel confident and good about yourself because you are amazing.

These things are in no way a “fix it method” but they have helped to make some hard days just a tad bit easier. Wake up and prepare each day as if it will be an absolute great day, until it is. What are some of the things that help you to improve your mood? Comment below to share. I can’t wait to hear.

As always, thanks for reading! Please subscribe for more and if you are already a part of the garden, thank you so much for growing with me.