This is what February was like for me in a nutshell.

Have we talked enough about how dumb this season has been? I have my reasons for being angsty about the season and I’m guessing you do, too. Today I’m sharing my ideas on how to battle the winter blahs and take back your sanity and good humor. 7 things to do less often AND 7 things to do more often for good measure. There’s nothing Earth shattering here, but we’ll take all the help we can get, right?

7 Things to Do Less Often

1. Worry – I know, it’s easier said than done. But I’m told it doesn’t actually help and just makes you feel like crap. I’m trying to do less worrying but I’m really bad at it. Instead: Meditate and practice gratefulness and positive thinking. Journal about the good things and give the negatives less power.
2. Social Media – This is a tough one. I like being connected to people and sharing about my day, but it is also a time suck and often leaves me feeling depressed or less than between sad news, angsty political posts and even well intentioned humble bragging. I’ve been trying to really limit my time on these sites. Instead: call a friend and start getting together with more people in person. Write letters or emails and practice being present in the moment.
3. Stay up late – Especially if it’s just staying up late looking at the aforementioned social media. Everything feels easier to handle when you are well rested. Instead: Kick your phone out of bed if you have to. Limit your caffeine in the afternoons and watch how late you are staying up.
4. Hang out alone and stew about your woes – they say misery loves company but so does happiness. It’s amazing how much better I feel simply by going out and being around people and, even better, getting busy with something. Give your need to wallow a time limit. Instead: Volunteer at your kids school, get coffee with a friend, heck go grocery shopping. Do the things.
5. Read sad books – ditto to depressing tv and movies. Maybe you feel better after taking in this kind of media but it really wears me down personally. Instead: Embrace the funny. I’m trying to be all about the comedy and positive vibes right now. 30 minute sitcoms, romantic comedies and lighter books for awhile.
6. Eat your feelings – I don’t really need to tell you how much this doesn’t work. I’m a sucker for treating myself to something sweet in general but eating healthy always makes me feel better in the long run, so it seems especially important when I’m feeling all blah. Instead: Drink more water and plenty of fresh foods. And while you are at it, don’t forget to exercise!
7. Keep it to yourself – You don’t need to be stoic about your feelings. You are not alone and people definitely want to help. Instead: Let people know when you are feeling less than 💯. Let help in, whether it’s just a little more company, a shoulder to cry on or an unbiased ear to turn to for advice.

What things would you add to this list? Share your favorite ways to Battle the Blah in the comments section.

I’m linking up with Mama Kat’s Writers Workshop today because it’s awesome.