It does not take much to end up in a bad mood. But when it happens you tend to make poor decisions. Plus your outlook is negative and you bring other people down… Not ideal for an EA.
Here, Australian wellbeing and mindfulness keynote speaker Elizabeth Jane assures Executive PA there are some simple things that – with a bit of positive action – can get back into a good place:
Physical activity
“Exercise releases endorphins, giving us a natural high. So, find a way to move. Go for a walk or run, or try simple stretching. This can relieve tension and improve your mood.”
Jump off the life hamster wheel
“A bad mood can be brought on by stress. Try:
- Deep breathing: Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds and exhale slowly. Tense and then relax each muscle group to release physical tension.
- Meditation: Finding just 10 minutes to meditate can clear your mind and centre yourself.
- Take time out when the bad mood first appears: Really feel into how you are feeling. Stand back from your emotion to work out what you need to feel better.”
Change your environment
“Spend time in nature or simply get fresh air. Natural surroundings and sunlight boost your mood. If your environment is cluttered, reorganise to create a more positive and pleasant environment.”
Do something fun and spontaneous
“Engage in a hobby or activity you enjoy. Put some music on. Watch something uplifting or funny. Any fun activity where you can focus on staying present lifts your mood.
Don’t let your mind to drift into negative, fearful thinking about the past or future.”
Reach out
“Just talking to someone or being around others can be very uplifting. Just don’t regurgitate the drama. Instead, work together to solve what is bothering you.”
Practise gratitude
“Write down a few things you are grateful for. Focusing on the positive can lift your mood and helps to attract more things to be grateful for. Remind yourself of your strengths and positive qualities.”
Practise forgiveness
“This can be difficult. But even if you have to fake it until you make it, forgiving and letting go of resentments and grudges can lift your mood considerably.
This doesn’t mean you need to condone behaviour causes you pain. Maybe choose to realise you can’t change the other person. They are where they are on their own growth journey.”
Nourish yourself
“Eat healthy, fresh unprocessed foods as much as possible. Avoid excessive sugar and caffeine. Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol if you can. It really impacts your mental health and wellbeing.”
Limit negative impact
“Create a positive information flow. Only follow accounts and pages that share uplifting and motivational content.”
Get back to basics
“Set some goals and focus on achieving them. Celebrate the completion of tasks – this can give you a sense of achievement and boost your mood. Create to do lists and check them off to feel productive and organised.”
