It’s normal to feel down every once in a while, but if that’s your constant mood, it’s worth asking why.
Feeling unhappy day in, day out is bound to take its toll on you, but you don’t have to just sit around and deal with it. In fact, there are probably some habits you have that are making your mood that much worse. Here are some things you might be doing that are keeping you miserable.
1. You’re constantly comparing yourself to other people.
Thanks to social media, it’s all too easy to fall into the comparison trap. Constantly measuring your life, achievements, or appearance against other people can lead to feelings of inadequacy and unhappiness. Remember, social media often shows a curated version of people’s lives, not the full picture. Focus on your own journey and progress instead of getting caught up in how you measure up to everyone else.
2. You’re neglecting your physical health.
Your physical and mental health are closely linked. Neglecting exercise, eating a poor diet, or not getting enough sleep can have a significant impact on your mood and overall wellbeing. Regular physical activity releases endorphins, which can boost your mood, while a balanced diet and adequate sleep are vital for maintaining energy levels and emotional stability.
3. You’re dwelling on past mistakes.
Constantly revisiting past errors or regrets can keep you stuck in a cycle of negativity. While it’s important to learn from our mistakes, obsessing over them prevents us from moving forward. Try to reframe past experiences as learning opportunities rather than failures, and focus your energy on the present and future.
4. You’re surrounding yourself with negative people.
The company we keep can have a profound effect on our mood and outlook. If you’re constantly around people who complain, criticise, or bring you down, it’s likely to impact your own mindset. Try to spend more time with positive, supportive individuals who uplift and inspire you. It might mean making some tough decisions about certain relationships, but it can significantly improve your overall happiness.
5. You’re not setting boundaries.
Failing to establish and maintain healthy boundaries in your personal and professional life can lead to feelings of resentment and burnout. It’s important to learn to say no to requests or situations that don’t align with your values or wellbeing. Setting clear boundaries helps protect your time, energy, and mental health, allowing you to focus on what truly matters to you.
6. You’re neglecting self-care.
Source: Unsplash In the hustle of daily life, it’s easy to forget about self-care. But neglecting your own needs can lead to stress, exhaustion, and unhappiness. Make time for activities that recharge you, whether it’s reading a book, having a bath, or pursuing a hobby. Regular self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential for maintaining your mental health and being your best self for other people.
7. You’re constantly seeking external validation.
Source: Unsplash Relying too heavily on other people’s approval for your sense of self-worth can be a recipe for misery. While it’s natural to want recognition, basing your happiness solely on external validation leaves you vulnerable to disappointment and self-doubt. Work on developing internal validation by acknowledging your own achievements and qualities, regardless of other people’s opinions.
8. You’re avoiding difficult conversations.
Source: Unsplash Sweeping issues under the rug might seem easier in the short term, but it often leads to pent-up frustration and resentment. Avoiding necessary conversations, whether with a partner, friend, or colleague, can create a toxic environment of unresolved tension. Learning to communicate openly and honestly, even when it’s uncomfortable, can lead to healthier relationships and greater peace of mind.
9. You’re not practising gratitude.
Source: Unsplash When we’re feeling down, it’s easy to focus on what’s wrong in our lives rather than what’s right. Neglecting to acknowledge the good things, no matter how small, can perpetuate a negative mindset. Try incorporating a daily gratitude practice, where you consciously note things you’re thankful for. This simple habit can shift your focus and improve your overall outlook on life.
10. You’re procrastinating on important tasks.
Source: Unsplash Constantly putting off important tasks or responsibilities can lead to a build-up of stress and anxiety. The weight of unfinished business can hang over you, affecting your mood and self-esteem. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps and tackle them one at a time. The sense of accomplishment from completing tasks can boost your mood and motivation.
11. You’re not challenging negative self-talk.
Source: Unsplash The way we talk to ourselves has a significant impact on our mood and self-perception. If you’re constantly engaging in negative self-talk, criticising yourself harshly, or assuming the worst, it’s bound to affect your happiness. Start paying attention to your inner dialogue and challenge overly negative or unrealistic thoughts. Replace them with more balanced, compassionate self-talk.
12. You’re spending too much time on screens.
Excessive screen time, whether it’s scrolling through social media, binge-watching TV shows, or constantly checking emails, can negatively impact your mood and sleep quality. Try to set boundaries around your screen use, especially before bedtime. Engage in more offline activities that involve face-to-face interaction or time in nature, which can significantly boost your mood and overall wellbeing.
13. You’re not setting realistic goals.
Setting unrealistic or overly ambitious goals can set you up for disappointment and feelings of failure. While it’s good to challenge yourself, it’s important to set achievable goals that allow for gradual progress. Break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps, and celebrate your achievements along the way. This approach can provide a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
14. You’re holding on to grudges.
Harbouring resentment or anger towards other people can be emotionally draining and negatively impact your own happiness. While it’s natural to feel hurt or angry at times, holding on to these feelings long-term only hurts you. Practice forgiveness, not necessarily for the other person’s benefit, but for your own peace of mind. Let go of grudges to free yourself from negative emotions.
15. You’re not challenging yourself enough.
While setting realistic goals is important, not challenging yourself at all can lead to stagnation and dissatisfaction. Without growth and new experiences, life can feel monotonous and unfulfilling. Try to regularly step out of your comfort zone, learn new skills, or take on new responsibilities. Personal growth and achievement can significantly boost your self-esteem and overall happiness.
16. You’re neglecting your social connections.
Humans are inherently social creatures, and neglecting our relationships can lead to feelings of isolation and unhappiness. Even if you’re introverted, maintaining meaningful connections with is important for mental health. Make an effort to stay in touch with friends and family, join social groups or clubs, or volunteer. Building and maintaining social connections can provide support, joy, and a sense of belonging.
17. You’re not living in alignment with your values.
If your daily life and choices don’t align with your core values, it can lead to a sense of disconnect and unhappiness. Take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you, and consider whether your current lifestyle reflects these values. It might involve making some changes, but living authentically can lead to a greater sense of purpose and fulfilment.
18. You’re not asking for help when you need it.
Trying to handle everything on your own, especially when you’re struggling, can be overwhelming and isolating. It’s important to recognise when you need support and to be willing to ask for it. This might mean reaching out to friends or family, or getting help from a therapist or counsellor. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and can be an important step in improving your mental health and overall happiness.
