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You Have the Power to Change your Feelings
Lots of things can get us in a depressed mood.  Some types of situations can put us in a bad mood, like a divorce or debt.  Sometimes we’re not really sure why we feel down; we just do.  Remember, we all feel like this from time to time, and we do have the power to change our feelings into more positive ones.  Get out of those negative thinking patterns and take action.  Here are 10 positive things you can do to get your mind focused on happier things.

1.  Go Outside

Sunshine and fresh air can do great things to you mentally and physically.  Go for a walk or to a park with your kids.  Parks are a great way to have some fun with your kids that costs nothing.  Take your bike or roller blades and get your blood flowing.  Or toss around a ball or Frisbe.

2.  Read Something Inspirational

Getting inspired by reading about others who lifted themselves up and out of adversity can really change a gloomy mood.  Or read something written by a great motivational speaker and see how inspired you get.

3. Turn on Some Music

Do you remember when you were younger and loved to dance around and sing to your favorite music?  You just can’t stay unhappy when you’re dancing and singing to your favorite songs.  Maybe music from when you were in high school.  Yes, your kids might think you’ve lost your mind, but that’s okay.  Maybe they’d think it was fun if you had a kareoke night with them.

4. Plan a Fun Outing

Search your local newspaper for fun events in your area.  Many events are inexpensive, so you don’t have to spend a lot to have fun.  This could be something you do for yourself or with the kids.  It’s refreshing to venture out where you’ve never been.

5. De-clutter a Room in Your House

When your home is cluttered it can be hard to be cheerful.  If one room is too daunting, then pick a closet or a drawer.  When that’s done, move on to the next small de-cluttering project.  Donate or sell the things you don’t need.  Throw out the junk.  See how good this makes you feel.

6.  Be Creative

Try your hand at drawing or painting.  Make something out of clay or paper mache.  Teach yourself how to play an instrument.  There are all kinds of way you can express your creativity, just pick one or two of your favorite ways and start creating your masterpiece.

7.  Help Others

Sometimes the best way to get out of a blue mood is to go out and help those less fortunate than you.  Sometimes when you’re in a depressed mood it seems that everyone else on the planet is happier or better off than you.  Helping others helps you to be thankful for what you have, even if it might not seem like much at the time.

8.  Do Something Nice for Yourself

Get a massage or go to a salon and get an updated haircut.  Buy yourself something nice like a new outfit or new perfume/cologne.  Light some scented candles, turn on some music and take a long bubble bath.  Take yourself out to dinner, or make yourself a fabulous dinner at home.

9. Throw a Party

You don’t need to have any reason to throw a party.  Just pick a theme and go with it.  Plan your party foods and decorations around your theme.  The possibilities are endless.  Then put together your party guest list, pick a date and start preparing.  Just be sure you don’t over extent yourself.  You don’t want your party to be a stress inducer.

10.  Movie Marathon

This one is always good if the kids are with the other parent.  Go rent a bunch of your favorite movies and have a movie marathon night.  Comedies are especially useful when you need to get out of a depressed state.  It’s hard to be in a bad mood when you are laughing.  Pop some popcorn and get into some comfy clothes, then start watching.

If you have any other tips on how to get out of a depressed mood, please let us know.