You likely already have a busy life. You’ve got school, parents, and peers that demand your time and attention. Perhaps you’re also involved in sports or other after-school activities.

 

Yet, there might be a few moments between 13 and 19 where you have to dig yourself out of a somber mood or a stressful situation. Instead of choosing drugs or drinking or some other dangerous activity to lift your spirits, try one of the following suggestions. For instance, instead of getting drunk, try making a list of what you want out of life. Instead of bar hopping, you could paint or write poetry. Art can bring a unique sort of high, one that’s natural and deeply fulfilling.

 

The following is a list of tidbits for you to try when you need to pull yourself up into higher spirits. They’re meant to give you a broader vision of your life. And with a new perspective can come inspiration and change.

 

1. Discover what you’re passionate about.
2. Take on a social hobby to meet new people, such as a cooking class.
3. Stop making excuses.
4. Get out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself.
5. Stop blaming others.
6. Do something for the community.
7. Don’t get complacent.
8. Pursue what you’re good at.
9. Take pride in taking responsibility for your health.
10. Don’t live in fear.
11. Make yourself your best friend.
12. Do your best to take good care of yourself.
13. Stay safe and practice sexual abstinence.
14. Write out your bucket list.
15. Exercise on a regular basis and take care of your physical body.
16. Find and develop healthy relationships.
17. Make friends with those who lift you.
18. Watch a movie that inspires you!
19. Reach out to others in need.
20. Lend a helping hand to those who are younger than you.
21. Remember that just because you’re excited about becoming an adult, you still need to take action along with developing maturity.
22. Be responsible for your own choices and behavior.
23. Do what works for you, not what others tell you to do.
24. Don’t lie to yourself.
25. Forgive others.
26. Forgive yourself.
27. Move beyond feeling bad about yourself. It’s time to take action and heal.
28. Become more and more self-aware through meditation and journaling.
29. Stay busy. Keep your mind off the challenges.
30. Take on an artistic hobby, as a way to express yourself.
31. Build a network of support.
32. Learn to live without drugs.
33. Learn to have fun and go out with friends without alcohol.
34. Take long walks.
35. Spend time in Nature.
36. Talk to your parents and siblings.
37. Pick up old hobbies that you left aside.
38. Count your blessings and be grateful.
39. Pursue your intellectual interests.
40. Improve your skills so that you are more attractive in the job market.
41. Stimulate your mind through reading.
42. Make a list of the things you want to achieve.
43. Avoid old dysfunctional friendships.
44. Avoid old hangouts where you might get pulled into a drink.
45. Spend more time with your family.
46. Do something you’ve never done before – expand your horizons.
47. Quit smoking.
48. Keep challenging yourself!
49. Reconnect with your religious and spiritual roots.
50. Create the life you want! Start envisioning your future.

 

Despite this list, there’s still a chance you might remain down in the dumps. Everyone is vulnerable to his or her own weaknesses. Yet, little by little, you can turn it around. Little by little you can find a light inside. And you can use that light to guide you out of the dark and towards a fulfilling and meaningful life.