My February blues never cease to amazingly creep up on me each and every year. I’m trying really hard to fight and push past my negative downward spiralling thoughts in the tiniest of ways. Sometimes it’s quite literally second by second moments that seem impossible to get through when my anxiety and sadness engulfs me. Then, as often occurs, I started thinking…what constitutes a good day?
I started jotting down a list and it began to unfold in such a glorious way before my eyes, bringing a much needed smile to my face. I’ll share that list, in hopes to inspire you to do the same in your journals—you know the one you bought on Amazon or Barnes & Noble with my name on it, right? (Wink, Wink!).
Photo Credit: Gilda Tavernese
Truly, in no particular order:
1. When the first peaks of the morning sun streams through my linen curtains jolting me back to a trip to Italy when I was barely four years old. Remembering how the mornings always filled me with high hopes for the day and the light brought me comfort of my family close by, even if I felt a little scared alone in my bed.
2. Listening to my dog gently snoring as she sleeps next to me.
3. Having a good hair and makeup day combo.
4. Getting my kids to school on time without discussion.
5. When my son—who has been given the gift of gab and the teenage-like brazen confidence to go with it—begs for a hug from me, as for a moment he turns back into the sweet 10 year old boy that he is before my very eyes.
6. Watching my daughter giggle. Also, Seeing her proud face as she unveils her latest artistic creative masterpiece.
7. Seeing my 15 year old niece’s face light up as she discovers a possible career path in the wonderful world of engineering, while I describe to her the endless possibilities. Seeking unexpected advice from me filled me with such joy.
8. Holding my one month old niece as she sleeps and won’t stop dreaming. Her connection to the spiritual realm will blow our socks off. You heard it here first!
9. Receiving random texts from my good friend complaining about our common introvert woes when forced into having to be social. Cracks me up every time.
10. Hugs from my 3 year old nephew after he squeals my name ‘Zia Geeta!’
11. Having the house to myself.
12. Listening to music as I put on my makeup alone in the bathroom.
13. Being alone.
14. Being with family/friends (yes, both is possible).
15. Washing my face in peace.
16. Nudges from Luna prompting doggy massage time.
17. Getting ready for a night out. Getting ready for bed.
18. Seeing my mother happy when we are all together.
19. Listening to my father’s interior design ideas to ‘modernize’ his home at 73 years old. Equally, watching him all dressed up to take my mother shopping or going to see the doctor.
20. Unexpected messages from old friends.
21. Being a good listener for a friend in need.
22. When I am able to work past the need to take my anti-anxiety medication. It’s a good day.
23. Feeling proud of myself when I am able to identify my need to take my anti-anxiety medication. It’s an equally good day.
24. Taking a good power walk alone amongst nature.
25. Succumbing to a good cry session.
To end this unending list on a positive note, what constitutes a good day for me is when I can have a good belly laugh watching stupid videos online, and when I feel safe and at peace, if even for a moment.
Feel free to share with me what moments make up a good day for you. Remember, journals are wonderful and scientifically proven to be therapeutic, but what is also just as powerful is sharing your gratitude journal entries with those you love and trust most on this earth. So don’t stop writing, and definitely don’t stop sharing!
Thoughts At F___ It Forties 