Okay, let me start by saying this is not the post I had planned to share with you today (or at all really).  Because if I’m being honest, this is a space of confidence and all happy things.

But recently, I’ve realized something…

It’s okay to have a bad day.

And better yet, to embrace it.

Life is awesome.  With a smile on my face, I truly live to spread life’s joy to others regardless of circumstance (and trust me, there have been some pretty shitty circumstances).  But as of lately I’ve discovered the value in allowing myself a moment, hour, or an evening to embrace what may be hurting me.  Because whether you’re dealing with something that happened today, yesterday, or years ago it’s SO important to recognize and deal with it in order to let the struggle go.

But how?

I’m absolutely no where close to being the right person to prescribe a solution BUT just like you, I have bad days too and ALWAYS come out happier on the other side.  Though social media may portray curated perfection, my purpose here is to remind you we all have hard moments.  Here are just a few tips on rediscovering your happy place.

1.Pray/Meditate/Journal

For me, truly realizing how I’m feeling and WHY I’m feeling this way becomes apparent when I speak it out loud in prayer or write it down (hello IPhone notes).  Doing this is like finally telling your best friend a secret.  Get the struggle off of your chest and move forward.

2. Explore a new space.  Alone.

One of the things I love about living in New York is there is always a new space to explore.  For me, the adventure of exploring somewhere new is extremely relaxing, invigorating, and allows me time to reflect.  Even if you’re not in a city, take yourself somewhere nearby you’ve always wanted to go.  I mention doing this alone because when I’m with others I am always concerned about their wellbeing.  After a bad day, the person who needs checking on is you.

ps. If you hate the feeling of being alone OR the silence of being alone, stream a stellar podcast to brighten your spirits.  Though I’m currently obsessed with business podcasts, my favorite pick-me-up is the I Don’t Get It podcast.

3.  Treat yourself…Drink the soda!!!

I am the first to admit how much I love a yummy snack and particularly an icy Cola, but as I’ve been living a healthier lifestyle these have become a delicacy.  However, treating yourself is important ESPECIALLY on a bad day.  So as long as it does not re-introduce a bad habit back into your life, I say TREAT YOURSELF!

4. (And in the spirit of treating yourself) SHOP

I think we all can admit that retail therapy is a real thing!  Now don’t go too crazy (paying rent is important!), but allow yourself the time to focus on your beauty rather than the negativity of your day.  Style is a form of self expression.  When you wear your new piece, you will be reminded of how far you’ve come.

ps. I bought this burgundy blazer in recovery of a bad day and it is currently one of my FAVORITE pieces this season.

 

Of course these ideas may not work for everyone but I hope it can provide you a sense of relaxation and self discovery on a tough day. It is so important to be open about what we are struggling with, so I thank you all for allowing me a moment. And honestly-I feel better already!

Be sure to follow my blog and subscribe to emails for my review of the latest sales and collection launches every Wednesday as well as fashionable confidence boosting tips every Sunday!  You’ll have first access to my latest feel-GREAT tips when you subscribe to emails from A Grim Sense of Style, follow me on Instagram and Pinterest.

Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.

Oscar Wilde