Harry Potter, exercise and napping like a cat: how our readers get over a bad day
This week, we asked our readers: what they do to make themselves feel better when they’re having a bad day? Here are some of our favourite answers!
Taking it one word at a time
I’ve realised that, when I’m feeling down in the dumps, I tend to let my negative thoughts fester. When I write down what’s going on in my head, I find it easier to make sense of things – sometimes, I’ll even realise things aren’t as bad as they seem to be. Sometimes, you just need to take a step back from your problems to find a better mindset.
Jess Yung, 14, Shatin College
Shootin’ hoops
There’s nothing better when you’re feeling down than hitting up the basketball court with your mates and going for a round of three v three, until you feel like you can’t play anymore. Playing basketball, or anything fun, with your mates will cheer you up for sure.
Brian Ma, 14, South Island School
Escape in a book
When I’m having a bad day I get Harry Potter out and read all seven books from cover to cover. That way, I get to immerse myself in the Wizarding world, far away from my problems.
Hay Wong, 12, Sha Tin College
Family and friends
Whenever I feel sad or bad, I remind myself of the people around me who love and support me – and that’s all the encouragement I need to overcome my problems and start smiling again. Having said that, a little something sweet doesn’t hurt either.
Adrian Leung, 20, The University of Hong Kong
Inner wisdom
I talk to my imaginary friend, and part-time counsellor, Jenson. It’s basically myself, but Jenson is a much more wise and understanding me. He really helps me feel better and smile.
Ady Lam, 12, Island School
Treat yo’self
Sweets and chocolate are, well, sweet. They really brighten up my day, and it’s like I’m addicted to the stuff. Does this happen to everyone, or is it just because I have a sweet tooth?
Charlotte Choi, 12, Shatin College
Sleep it off
Take a nap – there’s nothing a nap can’t fix. A bit of rest helps your mind relax and you wake up in a completely new mood!
Anushka Purohit, 17, Renaissance College Hong Kong
Could be worse
When I have a bad day, I let my inner pessimist take over my mind. I start to think of the worst things that’s happened to me, or the worst situation I’ve had to get through. If I have to really sit down and think about the worst things about my day, I might realise that this “bad” day might not be as awful as I initially thought.
Jenny Wong, 18, School of the Nations, Macau
Don’t sweat it
I go for a run. When I am running, I feel like my bad luck and sadness are left far behind. Studies show that exercising helps the human body release endorphins, which are the hormones that reduces stress. That’s why I think running is the best activity do to when you are trying to get over a bad day.
Timmy Yeung, 19, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Turn sadness into art
Misery and frustration actually fuels my writing, so instead of moping or complaining, I put my bad day down into words. By decorating my negativity in elegant phrasing and vocabulary, I can start to forget why I was angry, and be proud of something beautiful instead.
Miuccia Chan, 16, Maryknoll Convent School
For next week’s Top 10, tell us: What special talent do you wish you had? Send your answers to [email protected], along with your name, age and school, and our favourite answers will appear in next week’s Top 10 page!