They say studies show that people are happier when they write down things and save things that have made them happy.

I haven’t been feeling too upbeat lately, but I also haven’t really been making an effort. I need to start writing down things that I should be grateful for and making the best of what I have.

So here’s my list of ‘on the bright sides’:
• I got a raise; my responsibility and work has been recognized
• All my student loans have been paid off and I’ve been saving a lot
• I have a great dad - Happy Father’s Day, baba
• My (twin) brother and I have gotten close
• Mama and I aren’t fighting. Plus, she’s finally home to take care of my dogs
• I’m scared, but I’m going to Japan for my year abroad of self-discovery

It’s hard to be positive when things don’t feel right in life. But it’s all we can do to keep trying. To go out when we don’t feel like it. To smile when we’re down. To think about the bright sides even when we’re drowning in depression.

Here’s to not thinking so much, 'cause god knows overthinking is a killer at night.