There is no shortage of things that bring on stress in modern life. There is a lot to be hurt about. There is plenty to worry over. But there is also a lot to be happy about.
Focus on Thinking Positive
It can be a challenge to focus on feelings of positivity and joy among all of the trials and sadness that so many people are experiencing every day. And if you find those times where happiness comes naturally, you may even feel guilty about that. But it’s in stressful times that finding positive things to focus on becomes even more important!
In Duval County, 87.4% of adults reported having “good mental health” in 2016, which is the most recent year of data from the Florida Department of Health. This number is not far off from the state’s 88.6% level, but the local rate has seen a slow decline over the last decade.
Thinking Positive is Not Always Easy
Self-care and improving your mental health is not always easy, so sometimes it’s best to start small. With that in mind, here are 8 steps that can get you started.
- List the little things: At some point, everyone needs a reminder of things that make them happy, so make it easier on yourself by keeping a list! Sunny days, cozy sweaters, praise at work, a compliment from a stranger- there are a lot of little things you encounter each and every day that make you smile. Write them down, and on the days that you’re struggling, pull out your list to remind yourself of the positive things in your life.
- Truly enjoy your morning coffee/tea: So often we have to speed through our morning routine and pack our caffeine in a travel mug. Consider getting up a few minutes early, buying a blend that you really enjoy, and sitting on a cozy couch or patio to just relax and really savor your morning pick-me-up.
- Spread joy through your home: Print photos of fun trips you’ve taken and hang them in different rooms. Get some colorful houseplants (or fake plants!) to lift your spirits. Write affirmations or other encouragements on sticky notes to hang by your mirror. When you look around your home, try to make sure that you will see something that brings you joy!
- Visit a local park: Jacksonville has no shortage of family-friendly parks! Whether you enjoy a hiking trail or want a playground for the kids, you will be able to find your match. You can even make a game out of it with friends- make a park bingo card and see who wins!
- Indulge: All things in moderation of course, but if a bit of dark chocolate always boosts your mood, then keep some in your pantry. Or if you’ve been eyeing a fuzzy blanket for weeks, pull out your wallet. It’s important to reward yourself and indulge a little!
- Stand in a sun shower: If you’re new to Florida, a sun shower is when the sun is shining and it’s warm, but it’s also suddenly raining. These normally only last a few minutes, so the next time one rolls through your neighborhood, step outside! Enjoy the warm and bright sun with the cool and gentle rain, and feel revived! Bonus points if you throw a towel in the dryer before you step out, so it’s warm when you get back inside!
- Try something ambitious with a trusted group of people: When is the last time you’ve laughed at yourself or someone close to you? If you can do so safely with COVID-19 precautions, bring together a few friends to try to bake something ambitious or take an art class or something outside of your comfort zone. Best case scenario- you learn a new skill. Worst case- your group has some great new jokes and you’ve had a fun afternoon. Either way, there will be laughs!
- Be intentional about your joy: It may seem simple, but if you get caught up in the everyday routine, a whole day can go by without thinking about happiness. Be intentional. For example, when you come home from work, dedicate 15 minutes to playing with your pet without any other distractions. Both you and your four-legged friend will be better for it!
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