Bad days happen

Bad days are part of life – we sadly cannot avoid them. Many of us tend to revert to unproductive behaviors when experiencing a bad day—whether it's overeating, poor eating, drinking too much, getting moody with others, or overspending. Having productive, ‘go-to’ strategies ready for when bad days strike helps to minimise their impact.

Reflect

What strategies can you put in place to support you on bad days?

What are your trigger points to bring the strategies into play?

Some ideas:

•  If you know in advance that a rough day is ahead, plan something you love for the end of the day, so you have something positive to look forward to

• Make a quick call to a fun friend – have a laugh and get some support

• Take 10 minutes to go for a walk – get some physical movement, refresh and regain perspective on the issues.

• Meditate – to regain calm and clarity

• Exercise – to boost your mood & reduce your stress

• If fatigue is fuelling your bad day – take time out for a quick nap.

• Name it & tame it – name the emotions arising from your bad day concerns.    This helps to reduce your stress and feelings of overwhelm.

• Consider if the issues creating your bad day will matter in a week, a month or a year.    This helps to provide perspective.

• Try to reframe your thoughts – look for a positive or growth opportunity in your situation, what can you learn from the experience?

• Practise gratitude – focus on what you are grateful for to shift your mindset.

• Use a breathing practice to calm the nervous system.

• Play your favourite upbeat music that will get you moving and lift your mood.