Hey everyone! I’m doing something a bit different on the blog today. Between the long, cold, days of winter and hectic school schedule, I’ve been feeling like January and February have been difficult to get through this year. Hopefully I’m not alone. Thankfully, February is reaching its end, but here’s 10 tips on how to stay positive. Read on!

1. Start a journal. I am a huge fan of journaling because it’s where I can be honest and open with myself. Write out all your thoughts, hopes, dreams, feeling, etc. onto paper. Keeping a list of things that make you happy will instantly brighten your day.
2. Do more for others. Volunteering is a great way to make others happy, which will in turn make you happy! Random acts of kindness are also a wonderful way to make yourself and people around you happy. Last week on Valentine’s Day, a girl at my school passed out lollipops throughout the day. Everyone seemed happier that day, which was so nice to see.
3. Exercise, exercise, exercise! Your body releases endorphins when you exercise, which cause you to feel happy. Exercising doesn’t have to be conventional either. You can stay active by taking a yoga class, going for a walk in nature, or playing a soccer/basketball/tennis etc. game with your friends.
4. Spend time in nature. The world is so beautiful that you can’t not be happy in nature. Chase sunsets and sunrises. Have a picnic on the beach. Go on hikes and adventures. Explore as much as you possibly can as often as you can.
5. Simply release people or things that are underserving you. End relationships and friendships that don’t make you happy. Step away from toxic people and habits. Spend time with people who lift you up rather than tear you down. Hanging out with optimistic people will influence you to become more optimistic.
6. Spend time with animals. This is a no brainer.
7. Sleep. It’s so underrated but it’s vital. By getting more sleep, you will wake up refreshed, renewed, and ready for the day ahead.
8. Smile more often. Smiling leads to positive thinking!
9. Eat wisely. You are what you eat. If you eat food that’s full of life, like fruits and vegetables, you’ll be more full of life. Additionally, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. Eating healthy can do wonders for your body and soul.
10. Take care of yourself. Listen to music that makes you happy. Start a new skin care routine. Get your hair or nails done as a treat for yourself. Take a bath. Do whatever makes you healthy that will benefit you. Remember your worth and strive to be better than the person you were yesterday.

Share this with whoever you think needs it. Let me know what you thought of this different type of post in the comments. See you soon!

xo, Liv

P.S. Special shoutout to my talented photographer friends, Maddie #closelove and Jewelia, for taking these amazing photos and Abby for her fun-loving self!