Some people can relate to experiencing more bouts of mood swings than others. But something we can all relate with is life taking an unpleasant turn or just simply getting offended sometimes.
And it is only natural if we get in a bad mood in those moments.
But according to the 80/20 rule, life is 20% what happens to us and 80% how we relate to it.
Basically, getting in a bad mood is practically inevitable, but how we can get out of it is the issue, so we don’t let the mood ruin our day.
How do we instantly shake off a really bad mood?
1. Acknowledge the issue
Many of us erroneously try to deal with bad mood by ignoring our feelings and just wallowing in it.
I am inclined to think that we probably feel that when we ignore it, it will naturally pass but unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way.
If we want to shake off a bad mood, we have to actually acknowledge that we are in a bad mood and why we are in a bad mood.
The first step to solving a problem is acknowledging that there is a problem in the first place.
So, don’t be afraid to acknowledge that you are in a bad mood and ask yourself why you feel the way you do.
2. Allow yourself to whine
This might seem counterproductive since what we are talking about is how to shake off a really bad mood.
You might be asking yourself, how am I supposed to shake off a really bad mood when I am whining and complaining about it?
The truth is that when we keep it inside, we actually take longer to heal. When you don’t express how you feel, it festers but expressing it drains it away.
Talking to someone who will let you whine is great but even if there is no one to talk to, talk to yourself; in fact, if screaming will help, knock yourself out.
3. Find a solution
After you have allowed yourself whine and complain about the situation, the next thing you should do is try to find a solution.
Talking about it or expressing how you feel will let you have a clearer head to see a solution that you might not have seen before.
Ask yourself if there is something you can do to make the situation better; think of all options and when you have found it, don’t hesitate to execute it.
4. Let go of issues you cannot control
On the other hand, it is very possible that the issue at hand will be something that you cannot control.
Sometimes, the best way to deal with the curves life throws our way is to watch life solve the issue itself.
It might not seem like that when we are going through issues but no situation is permanent and there is usually light at the end of the tunnel if we keep hope alive.
Also, if the issue is based on the behaviours of others, there is really nothing we can do to control how others behave.
Even if we do have a conversation with them about it, it is left to them to listen and make amends.
So, you can decide to stop letting their attitude affect you, understanding that you cannot change them and you cannot spend your life in a perpetual bad mood.
Remembering all these will help you let go and move on.
5. Do something you love
There is no better way to shake off a really bad mood than doing something you love.
No matter how simple it is, find an activity that is therapeutic for you and makes you happy; be it cooking, singing, listening to music, watching a movie, reading, hanging out with friends, walking amongst others.
Whatever it is, it works.
6. Count your blessings
Counting your blessing does two things to help with your mood.
Firstly, it helps you remember all the great things you have going on in your life and that will definitely put you in a better mood.
Secondly, it stimulates dopamine, which is a feel-good hormone, in your brain and that will naturally make you feel better.
7. Hit the gym
According to studies, exercising secretes feel-good hormones in your body, such as endorphins and serotonin.
Apart from the fact that exercising takes your mind off the issue, these hormones are responsible for making us feel good and it will automatically help you shake off the bad mood.
