We tend to notice how big things affect our mood. Taking a vacation to Hawaii, marriage, divorce, death, and serious financial issues are life changing and can really affect us in a positive or negative way. However, small things also impact your mood, and the small things happen more frequently. Understanding the small, day-to-day experiences that impact your mood is important. It can help you on your journey to a peaceful life.
Here are some of the many little things in life can that affect your mood:
Dehydration
If you’re feeling sluggish or irritable, you might just need a drink of water. Some people don’t have the benefit of good thirst mechanisms. Have a glass of water at least every few hours. Your mood might improve considerably, and so will your health. A good rule of thumb is to drink sixty percent of your body weight in ounces each day, so if you weigh one hundred pounds, you would drink sixty ounces of water.
Music
There are at least a few songs that impact your mood in a positive way. It only takes a moment of listening before you can feel your mood shift. Try to listen to a few songs you love each day. Upload them to your smart phone so they’re always handy. Be careful of songs with negative messages – they can affect you as well.
Scents
Certain smells can alter your mood. Your smelly cubical mate has one effect. A scent that reminds you of your all-time best date has a different effect. Are there any scents that you love? Find a diffuser and a certified pure tested grade essential oil that you enjoy. I love the scent of Christmas any time of the year, so I often use fir oils and add a little clove and cinnamon. Wild orange is also a favorite – it’s the sunshine in a bottle to brighten your day.
Weather
Too hot, too cold, too wet, too dry, or just right. A nice day lifts your mood. A dark, rainy day can drag it down. Find the positive in each weather condition – rains bring growth, and sometimes even rainbows. Each system has its own merit if you look for it.
Compliments
Receiving a compliment is sure to enhance your mood. Just a few kind words can have a big impact. Giving compliments can have a positive effect on your mood, too. The opposite is also true. A few unkind words can result in a bad mood. Keep that in mind when you’re talking to others. Giving a compliment is an easy way to lift someone else up, too.
Sleep
If you have children, you know what they’re like when sleep-deprived. You’re not much better! Ensure that you’re getting enough quality sleep that your mood isn’t being affected negatively. Turn off the electronics, sleep in a comfortable space, and try for a set time each night to add quality to the hours of sleep you are able to get.
Your posture
Studies have shown that slouching results in more negative thoughts, and standing or sitting up straight results in more positive thinking. If you sit up straight and tall, you are able to get more oxygen in your system as well.
The foods you eat
It’s not uncommon to have a mild reaction to certain foods and not even be aware of it. Try eliminating certain foods from your diet for a couple of days and see if it changes how you feel. Consider trying out the Whole30 system. It’s a free program where you eliminate most common triggers and gradually add them back over time to understand which foods affect you. Some common culprits are gluten, soy, eggs, dairy products, nuts, peanuts, which aren’t actually a nut, anything with a high sugar content.
Financial issues
You might not consider financial issues to be a “small thing,” but even small financial issues can harm your mood. For example, one unexpected bill can create a lot of emotional turmoil. Make a plan to establish a budget, and plan for unexpected expenses.
Spending time with negative people
Whether it’s a coworker, family member, or friend, spending time with a very negative person can sour your mood. Remember – like attracts like. If you want more positivity, hang out with more positive people.
Exercise
Interestingly, when you least feel like exercising, doing so seems to have the biggest positive influence on your mood. A brisk walk is all you need to boost your mood. Do whatever you enjoy – it doesn’t take much to make a difference.
You don’t need to purchase a sports car or vacation if you’re looking to boost your mood. There are plenty of smaller things that can change your mood significantly. These little things can occur on a daily basis and are well worth the effort to either seek or avoid. Focus on the small things that enhance or detract from your mood and you’ll enjoy pleasant moods more often.
Find your purpose – find your joy!
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Did you find a few more ideas of your own? If so, I’d love to hear about them in the comments, and as always please reach out with your thoughts.
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