7 Things I'm Doing to Stay Positive + Happy

The world is a crazy place right now, so I’ve been trying to be proactively positive. I once heard on a podcast that our default state is negative and that to experience a positive, happy mindset and life, we must work at it. Well, I’ve been working at it lately and here are the 7 things I’m doing to stay positive and happy.

1. POSITIVE READS

The more I fill my head with positive, uplifting thoughts, the more likely I am to feel that way. Here are a few of my tried and true positive reads.

Power of Now | here

This book focuses on living in the moment and getting out of your own head. The ways this book helped me practice that and become aware of the power of now… wow. I still have a few takeaways from this book that come into play on a daily basis. For example, there’s one part in the book about that teaches you how to feel the life force within your body and I swear I can do that which instantly elevates my vibe (again, weird wording but don’t think about the words just live it).

There’s another part about how when you encounter situations that don’t feel good, you let them move through you to ease the pain. To this day, I still visualize this when I grapple with something that is upsetting or sad… and I think about learning that tool in this book.

The Rhythm of Life: Living Everyday with Passion and Purpose| here

This was one of the first personal development books I ever read. I remember it being life changing, and I recommend it so often to others.

The Game of Life and How to Play It | here

This one has a cult like following. For me, it was a bit of a different read, yet I find myself rereading it. Some of the points have been very freeing for me, especially if you’re someone who holds onto stuff.

Unfu*k Yourself: Get Out of Your Head and into Your Life | here

A no nonsense book that will make you want to do and be your best.

You Are A Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life | here

One of my past favorites. This book sets the foundation for personal growth in a simple, easy-to-digest resource. It hits all the main points you’ll see every successful person talking about from setting goals to visualization and believing in yourself. Even though I read tons of other books with a similar message, I enjoyed the style of this book and I plan to reread it as a refresher.

Get Out of Your Head: Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts | here

I just got this book in the mail, so I haven’t yet started it. It came highly recommended from several different people, so I can’t wait to start.

2.GUIDED MEDITATION/JOURNALING

For guided mediation, I youtube “10 minute guided mediation ____ (for anxiety, positivity, etc.) There are some amazing ones on there and they’re free. I couple that with some things below.

Soft Cover Spiral Notebook Journal – 2 Pack | here

Let your pen go where it goes.

Daily Rituals: Positive Affirmations to Attract Love, Happiness, and Peace| here

The Daily Stoic Journal: 366 Days of Writing and Reflection on the Art of Living | here

The Confident Woman Devotional: 365 Daily Inspirations | here

Himalayan Sphere Salt Lamp Bowl with Aromatherapy | (here)

This can really set the mood when you’re reading, journaling, meditating, etc.

3. PODCASTS

If you know me, you know I listen to at least two podcasts per day.

My favorites: The Skinny Confidential Him + Her (best interviews!), Ed Mylett (personal development) and The Morning Toast (for “news” and girl chat).

AirPods | (here)

I can’t get through a day without popping in my AirPods at least 5x: music during workouts, podcasts while doing laundry, audio book while running errands, etc. I also have THIS silicone pink case for protection.

AirPods Silicone Carrying Case | (here)

This case is great for airpods and even has a clip to hook on your gym bag, purse, keys, etc.

4. TIME OUTDOORS

One of the most uplifting things for me has always been getting outside. Fresh air. Sunshine. It doesn’t matter what I’m doing but being outdoors lifts my mood.

Wine Picnic Table | here

Anthony and I have been doing at home date nights and this makes it fun.

Waterproof Picnic/Beach Blanket | here

We’ve been taking the boys to every park near us and this is awesome for picnics, the beach and anywhere you’d like a waterproof blanket.

Kids Fold Away Baseball Tee | here

I got this for Leo and both of my boys have had the best time. It’s great quality. The height adjusts. And, I love you can take it apart to store easily.

5. PLANTS/GARDENING

This is definitely a hobby I want to continue with. I love planting, gardening, watering. It’s so cathartic.

Garden Genie Gloves (here)

How cool are these!? They’re waterproof and have claws on the gloves so they’re made for digging and planting.

Classic Urn Planter (here)

If you’re going to be planting at all, these urn planters have a similar look to mine. I am constantly asked where mine are from (they’re several years old) but here’s a similar option.

5 Tier Garden Planter (here)

I thought this would be so fun for herbs and to get my kids involved. Plus, so cute!

6. DECLUTTERING/ORGANIZATION/CLEANING

Here is a blog post including my family house cleaning schedule + a printable checklist.

OXO Good Grips Container Set| here

I got a variety of these. I’m sure you’ve seen them around. Pro- they’re amazing and I’ve had mine for 2.5 years now with no issues. Con- they’re pricey. It’s a justified splurge even if you just get a few for items that can lose freshness fast.

Also, HERE is exactly how I organized my Pantry + Free Pantry Label Downloads that I use on my continuers.

Over The Door Hangers | here

Probably my favorite organization item. I have these all over my house. It hangs over the door yet still allows the door to close correctly AND its so discrete. I used these on my pantry door. laundry room door, and almost every closet door. The compartments hold a ton – kids shoes, accessories laundry products, food packets/snack, and so much more.

Drawer Organizer (Set of 6) |here

These drawer organizers are amazing. I have them in a variety of drawers from my kitchen to my bathroom and in my vanity/make up drawer. They’re versatile and I love that things don’t shift around in them easily.

Fridge and Freezer Organizer Bins |here

A clean and organized fridge makes grocery shopping and meal planning so much easier. You’re able to see exactly what you have and what you’re needing.

Tupperware Lid Organizer |here

This tupperware lid organizer is a must. No matter how hard I try, my tupperware lids are always all over the place. This organizer is adjustable and works well without taking up a crazy amount of space.

Baskets with Liner | here

I have these all over my house. I’m a big fan of baskets because you can toss stuff in them yet it still looks clean and tidy.

7. WARM BATH, PJs + TV/MOVIE

This is my go-to evening routine. I love a simple evening at home. I always take a nice shower or bath, get into PJs that make me feel fabulous and turn on a show.

Dr. Teal’s Foaming Bath Epsom Salt, Sooth + Sleep Lavender | here

I have enough Dr. Teal’s products to last me a lifetime but they are the best

Bath Tub Caddy Tray | here

Create your own spa day from the bath tub with the bath tub cabby. Pour yourself your favorite drink, bring a good book or your phone/iPad to watch a show or listen to a podcast, and completely relax.