Do you remember that song “Don’t Take it Personal (Just One of Dem Days)” by Monica?  I’m not going to sing it for you, don’t worry.  But if you need a memory jog, here you go.

Essentially, Monica is singing about having a bad day, and telling her boo not to take it personally, because it’s “just one of those things that a girl goes through.”  Whether she’s talking about actual PMS or the female propensity toward moodiness in general remains unclear.  What IS clear is that Monica knows what’s up.  Or at least she did, way back in 1995 when that song was released.

I don’t know about you, but I was 13 in 1995 and that song spoke to my SOUL.  Feeling all the teenage feels, my moods were all over the place.  Fast forward to today:  and sometimes?  They still are.

Whether you’ve got a lot of big stuff going on in your life (hello: foster care trial in 6 days) or you simply feel “off,” give yourself permission to feel what you feel.  But once you’re ready to feel something a little different, try this simple trick to boost your mood instantly.  You ready for it?

Put on your favorite playlist and dance!

I’ve talked about music as a coping skill in the past, but it warrants a full post (albeit a quick one) to remind you that having a playlist full of your favorite fun songs at the ready is essential when you find yourself, along with Monica, having one of dem days.

I actually have a playlist on my Spotify account full of my fave songs called “Joyful Playlist.” You can find it here, if you’re so inclined.

While you might not think it’s novel to keep a playlist of your favorite music, hear me out.  It’s not just about having the songs, it’s about setting the intention when creating a playlist that THIS will be one of your go-to ways to feel better when you’re having a crappy day.  So maybe you already have your playlist, but you name it something like “joyful playlist” or “happy songs” or “just one of dem days.”  This way, you’ll be more inclined to think of it and actually utilize it when you’re stuck in Grumpville.

And, last but not least, you’ll want to go ahead and pump up those jams and DANCE.

Look, I’m not a dancer.  In fact, dancing has, in the past, been one of my biggest fears.

But I do know this.  Letting yourself go, singing at the top of your lungs, and dancing like nobody’s watching will absolutely, one hundred percent lift your spirits.  So find a place to dance it out, whether it’s your living room with your kids, or your car by your lonesome (or your car full of your kids to get an extra giggle from embarrassing them) and get your groove on.

Note: In the car it’s best to keep the dance moves to your upper body because #safety.

Ok, my friends, tell me your go-to pick me up song when you’re having a bad day.  Mine is probably “In The Air Tonight” by Phil Collins because a) that percussion breakdown in the middle gets me every time and b) Phil’s singing is so dramatic that it cracks me up every time.  A close second would be “Brandy” by Looking Glass, and third place has to be “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips.

Much love to you today, and never hesitate to let me know what kind of posts you’d like to see more of in the future!

Oh, and before I forget, my monthly self-care membership is open now, but only for a limited time. 

My Self Care Bestie gives you unlimited access to my best videos, meditations, and self-care materials – and I started it to help as many women as possible.  For over 7 years, I’ve worked exclusively in private practice with clients who have had amazing results.  The problem is, therapy is expensive and many women can’t afford it. That makes me SO sad because I truly believe EVERYONE should have access to a therapist, and it shouldn’t have to cost them an arm and a leg.

Doors close Oct. 31, so don’t delay!  If you want to learn more about My Self-Care Bestie, or to sign up, you can click here.

P.S. Get your FREE guide to reducing negative self-talk here!