Life is tough, as we all know. And some days are more challenging than others.

So, in an effort to spread a little joy this Sunday, I thought I’d offer some tried-and-true techniques for doing just that, a’ight?

As is my MO to do, I took to the internet in search of suggestions from bigger brains than my own.

I landed on a site powered by mega-magazine “Psychology Today” and found some helpful hints I wanted to share.

1. Repeat positive affirmations.

One way to keep pessimism at bay is by repeating positive statements to yourself. Try writing down a few simple positive affirmations somewhere within your reach and repeat them often. Need some suggestions? Here you go:

“Today will be a productive day.”

“Success is within my reach.”

“I am capable of doing great things.”

“I am prepared to do my best.”

“Things often turn out all right.”

OK, that last one was less than comforting, but I digress.

2. Practice gratitude.

Pessimists tend to hold on to adverse experiences. Try flipping that script and write down a list of good things that have happened in the past and everything you appreciate. And when you recite your affirmations, also tell yourself something that you are grateful for.

3. Practice mindfulness.

Mindfulness is being present without judgments. Thus, you avoid attaching a negative label to everything when you practice mindfulness and see things in a more neutral (or realistic) light.

4. Reframe your thoughts.

If you catch yourself expecting adverse outcomes, try to reframe your thoughts. For example, if you tell yourself, “I don’t want to go to this party because I won’t enjoy it,” try saying, “I may or may not enjoy the party, but I won’t know if I don’t go.”

5. Do what you can, and hope for the best.

You may still expect the worst. When thinking about a future event, it is important to remember that terrible things are rare. And if you put in enough effort and are prepared for the worst, great things do indeed happen.​

BAM! The down low was summarized with these insightful words of wisdom:

“Nobody chooses to be a pessimist, but some of us have a negative outlook, and our pessimism can suck the joy out of everything. Of course, pessimism isn’t always bad, as long as it is balanced with a healthy dose of optimism. Yet, if you are overly pessimistic, you may start experiencing anxiety and show symptoms of depression. Luckily, pessimism is something we can overcome.”

What are you waiting for, y’all? It all starts with a smile so get to it!

Kimerer is a columnist who wishes happiness for all humans, period. Contact her with sunny thoughts of your own to share at pkimerer@zoominternet.net.