Alright, I don't know if it is just me but does anyone get depressed with cold weather. I think this is a real thing so no one is allowed to judge. It happens to me every year, like right after Thanksgiving, the days are super short, it's cold like all the time, and even though Christmas is right around the corner - following that is 3 (possibly 4) months of cold cold cold weather.
A lot of this has to do with it getting dark so early, I know this for a fact. Leaving work in the summer or warmer months is a million gazillion times better. You leave work and it is still sunny and warm, you are most likely heading to happy hour, maybe taking your dog for a walk, or maybe even a run outside (if you are super ambitious). That is not the case in the winter..the ONLY thing and I mean ONLY thing I want to do when I leave work is get straight into sweatpants and onto my couch. I also find myself going to bed super early..it starts out at like 10 PM and before you know February comes around and I am in bed at 7:30 PM. This doesn't bode well for my social life.
So people..I need pick me ups!! Things to look forward too or to shake me from this winter-depression (which again..stop laughing..is a thing!)
So one of my favorite websites POPSUGAR, posted a link, 50 Ways to Feel Better About Yourself Right Now. Now obviously I am not going to be doing all 50 all the time and I also cannot be drunk all the time soooo we compromise and try and do some of these while drinking wine!
3. Get in front of a mirror and practice smiling. While working your grin, take a minute to acknowledge your looks and appreciate your favorite part of your face - I encourage you to do this after a few alcoholic beverages..worth it.
7. Give yourself an at-home manicure with a color you regularly wouldn't wear, and flaunt it. OR if you are lucky like me, ask your roommate who has an extremely steady hand and probably wouldn't mind. Win - Win.
13. Zen out and meditate. Close your eyes, take 10 deep breaths, and imagine something relaxing. As cheesy as this is, I TOTALLY recommend this one, turn off the lights, light a candle and put on some relaxing music..just make sure not to pass out.
18. Go ahead and cry it out. No shame..no shame.
30. Smile big at a stranger. Once you start, it's hard to stop. This sounds so creepy it just might work..also send me a video of you doing this cause it sound hilarious.
These kind of go together, so I will end with these, 46. Pick up a hobby. and 49. Challenge yourself to try something new. These are my absolute go-to's - whenever I am in a bad mood these either make me so frustrated that I give up and go to bed (problem somewhat solved) or it's a great experience and my spirits are instantly lifted. Two thumbs up to these suggestions!!
So maybe it's just me, but I can guarantee that I will have to look at this list at least once more before we have sunshine and summertime.
Until next time my friends..be happy!