10 Things You Can Do Instead Of Complaining, Obsessing, Or Feeling Sorry For Yourself

There’s a reason why we have Book Clubs and not Worry Clubs.

Updated 10 years ago, June 11, 2014

1. Give

I guarantee that no matter how bad you think you have it, there is always someone who has it far worse. So instead of throwing a pity party, try helping those that really need it. Make a donation to your favorite charity. Volunteer with underprivileged children. Spend quality time with someone who just needs a friend. Sometimes all it takes is a little perspective.

2. Create

Finger paint, knit, play the ukulele! Don’t worry about the finished product or your own skill level. Not only can creative expression bring great joy; it can help to work out some of those deep seated issues like nothing else. Writing has always been my greatest therapist, and it’s a whole lot cheaper.

3. Phone a friend

There are times when you just need to talk through it, and that’s completely normal and healthy. So give yourself permission to reach out and ask for help- that’s what those true friends are there for.

4. Pick up a book

There’s a reason why we have Book Clubs and not Worry Clubs. Books have the extraordinary power to take us out of our heads and escape to another world for a while. Three chapters in and you may have completely forgotten why you were so upset in the first place.

5. Move

Run, take a yoga class, dance around your apartment to bad 80’s music. Instead of obsessing over imperfections, learn to celebrate your unique form, thanking it for all that it does for you. When you’re good to your body, it will be good to you.

6. Make a gratitude list

It’s so easy to forget just how blessed we are to have the simplest things in life: a safe home, a loving family, food to eat and clean water to drink. Just being alive is truly a miracle. Take five minutes a day to give thanks and your life will feel rich beyond belief.

7. Laugh

Life can get serious at times, but that doesn’t mean you always have to take yourself so seriously. Listen to your favorite comedian, read the funnies, goof around with your silliest pal. In times of need, laughter really can be the best medicine.

8. Give yourself some TLC

Sometimes when it feels like the world is against us, we may be inclined to act in self-destructive ways. But drinking, overeating, picking fights, and other unhealthy coping mechanisms only add to the problem. Instead, go out of your way to make yourself feel good. Enjoy a long bubble bath, watch your favorite movie, visit the most beautiful spot you can think of. Taking care of oneself is not selfish; it’s self-preserving.

9. Meditate

It’s by no means easy, but a daily practice of meditation can prove to be life-altering. Anxious thoughts and feelings may still come, but once you’ve cultivated a strong foundation of mindfulness you’ll be able to acknowledge them without reaction or judgment.

10. Take an adventure

 Get in your car and just drive, no questions, no curfew, no destination. There is a vast and truly awesome world out there, so don’t let fear or self-doubt stop you from living a full and adventurous life. Let go and see where the road takes you.