Finding the right recipe for a good day

Survival can often resemble barely getting by, or doing all one can to ward off stress, loneliness, adversity and depression. So, how does one go about shifting that narrative and finding their centre in optimism? With the start of a new month and season comes an opportunity to reflect on well-being and the factors that contribute to a good day. But what does a good day actually look like? According to registered social worker and counsellor Lori-Ann McDonald, the answer depends largely on an individual's perspective.

“The definition of a good day has to come from each individual. For one person, a good day could be sleeping in, getting to work with no traffic, experiencing no chaos at work, getting home early and relaxing, and then having a good night's sleep. While for another, it could mean something as simple as getting a callback for a job. It varies, but it is usually associated with something that lifts your mood or has a positive impact on your life,” McDonald explained to Lifestyle. 

Starting that conversation can unpack even bigger factors such as creating schedules and routines designed to achieve that euphoric goal at the end of the day.

While there are those who benefit significantly from making to-do lists and sticking to certain regimens, it's important to explore different paths to discover which routes work for you. 

“I personally don't think you do need one, but I have seen where clients of mine have benefited from the consistency of a routine to help keep them in a more positive headspace, which in turn helps create more good days,” she shared.

Additionally, discussing mental health issues can create a paradigm shift or offer a fresh perspective, and it can sometimes mean breaking bad habits. For example, how does one get people to see the good in their days? It all depends on someone’s general approach to life. Those who have difficulty viewing the glass as half-full should try to focus on finding something positive to reflect on, no matter how small, rather than leaning into the negative.

Challenges can run even deeper when the concept of bad days being good for an individual's growth enters the chat. While this all depends on the situation at hand, McDonald believes that seeing the bright side, even in the darkest situations, is possible. 

“We can all grow through hardships and learn more about our lives and ourselves, which makes us stronger humans,” she said, adding that the opposite can also be true of good days being bad for a person. “If we go by socio-economic status of a well-to-do person having only good days, when do they learn to sacrifice, or how to deal with their hardships? They evolve with only one perspective on life, and that causes them to do things in a specific way.”

And because unresolved matters can escalate when triggered by stressful situations, it is helpful to recognise people, situations or environments that may lead to heightened stress or emotional distress. 

It is also beneficial to surround yourself with others with a sanguine personality who can help lift your spirits. Balance is key; after all, it takes a village not only to raise a child, but also to support adults.

Having a good community around you, McDonald says, helps boost positivity. “When you come together as a community, no matter if it’s big or small, you'll have a shoulder to physically and metaphorically lean on for support, advice or just good vibes. Ensure your community has the right people in it for you.”

As for ways you can go about having a good day, the social worker says all it takes is one step in the right direction. She recommends eating well from the day or night before, getting good sleep, exercising, or doing light stretches or yoga.

“There’s nothing like a nice walk to make the body feel refreshed. Start your morning right as well. You decide what that means for you and your life; that could include anything that makes you happy. Meditate, or as we say in Jamaica, ‘hol’ ah meds’ before you leave the house or on your way to work. Maintain a positive outlook and set clear boundaries that will protect your peace. And if you are seeking external assistance, you can reignite old interests or explore passions. And set clear boundaries in order to protect your peace,” she endorsed.

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com