25 Ways to Reset When You're Having a Rough Day

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Have you ever had a day that started off on the wrong foot and only went downhill from there? A day where you were in a funk, and you just couldn’t seem to get over it?

The truth is, we all have days like those sometimes.

And while it’s tempting to wait it out until bedtime and have a better day tomorrow, there’s no reason you can’t turn your day around–starting right now!

It may not be easy, but you owe it to yourself and your family to try. And here are 25 ways you can do just that!

p.s. Need to make some more positive memories with your children? Be sure to check out the +Positive Parenting 6-day challenge!

Take a shower: Ten minutes of alone time may be just what you need! Make sure you grab the body wash that smells amazing and your favorite fluffy towel for when you’re done. (Finding time for yourself is so important!)
Blow bubbies: Because really–who can be mad when you’re blowing bubbles? And if you can get your kids giggling and running around too–that’s just the best.
Take a walk: The fresh air and sunshine will do you good.
Clean something: I think messes and clutter stress most of us out far more than we realize. Pick a room, spend 10-15 minutes really cleaning, and you just might feel better.
Call a friend: Sometimes a “Yep. Me too.” is all you really need. Don’t worry Mama–it’s not just you. Your friend might even have some tips that could help! (This is also a great idea if you are battling mom loneliness.)
Put down the to-do list: If it’s not happening right now, it’s not happening right now. Set it aside and don’t worry about it. You’ll get it done later.
Put on some praise and worship music: It’s a great way to change your focus and your perspective. (Not in the mood for music? These Christian YouTubers or these Christian podcasts may be fun for you to listen to instead!)
Get dressed and put on make-up. If you’re a stay-at-home mom, it can be tempting to live in your pajamas for days on end. Getting dressed with make-up can help you feel human again.
Bake some cookies: Cookies always make me feel better–I bet your kids would love them too! (Plus kids usually talk less with food in their mouths 😉 )
Take the kids to the park: It’ll help them run off some energy and you’ll get a minute of peace and quiet. (Don’t miss this post on creating joyful moments with your kids this summer!)
Listen to a good comedian on YouTube or Pandora: My husband and I have been listening to Jim Gaffigan lately. He’s a Christian comedian, so you can listen even with the kids around. Oh, and this video of comedian Michael McIntyre is hilarious–I was laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes! (warning: one quick naughty word, but otherwise clean)
Ask for help: If you need a break when your husband gets home, it’s okay to ask. Better for him to watch the kids for 20 minutes so you can take a break and feel better than for everyone to be grouchy all night.
Put off tough tasks for another day: If you’re already in a bad mood, today is not the day to call and deal with the insurance company. You can make that call tomorrow.
Take a nap: Everyone says “Sleep when the baby is sleeping,” but do you? Even a 10-minute nap can do wonders.
Look on the bright side: For every one thing you want to complain about, find three things to be grateful for.
Watch videos of babies laughing on YouTube: This video is my all-time favorite. Or you could look up cats or puppies or whatever makes you giggle.
Do something nice for someone less fortunate: It’ll make you forget about your own problems for a little bit.
Watch this “Church Signs” parody: Oh my goodness, I love this song. I’ve listened to it… let’s just say… a few times now 🙂 If you like corny church signs, this will be right up your alley. Uptown Funk Easter Parody is pretty catchy too.
Take a breath and say a prayer: No matter how bad it is, it’s nothing God can’t handle.
Give your kids a big hug: When your children are driving you nuts, hugging them may feel like the last thing you want to do, but it may be just what they need. (Make sure to check out this post on speaking your child’s love language.)
Drink some water and eat something healthy: It’s tempting to grab for junk food when you’re having a bad day, but this will only make things worse. Grab something healthy instead.
Run around in the backyard with your kids: The kids will love having your undivided attention, and the exercise will help you feel better.
Log off of social media: While it’s nice to have the little brain break, chances are you won’t feel any better afterwards–and you may even feel worse.
Have a dance party: Turn on something upbeat, grab the babies, and shake your booties! It feels great!
Spend time doing a favorite hobby: What do you LOVE to do that you haven’t gotten to in a while? Whether it’s scrapbooking, singing, knitting, painting or running, try to fit a few minutes into your day.

Alright, that’s 25 different ways you can reset when you’re having a bad day. Hopefully one will work, but if not–there’s always tomorrow!

I’m curious–what’s YOUR favorite way to reset when you’re having a rough day?

p.s. Don’t forget to sign up for +Positive Parenting Challenge–a 6-day challenge to help you reconnect with your children in a positive and meaningful way. Sign up today!

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Brittany

Owner at Equipping Godly Women

A devoted Christian, wife and mother, Brittany loves helping other women grow in these roles as well. When she isn’t busy taking care of her growing family, you can find her at Equipping Godly Women, where she regularly shares tips, tricks and encouragement to help you be the amazing woman God created you to be.