Dare to Reflect: One of Those Days

The six most freeing words in the English language: It's just one of those days. Emphasis on the "one." There's comfort to be found in knowing that a rough day is a break from the norm, not the new status quo. You can feel down and out, but don't feel stressed about the fact that you feel down and out. Instead, for one day, fool yourself into being cheerfully miserable.

Rather than trying to pretend like you feel happy and whole, embrace your bad mood. Tell everyone about it! Okay, maybe put on a brave face for your boss, but share a moment of lighthearted commiseration with your barista, or drown your sorrows with a friend after work. Buy her a round for putting up with your nonsense. Laugh at how randomly dreadful you feel. What is that all about, anyway?

Managing your emotions and your habits in the long run is important—if one bad day turns into 20, by all means, take action on your own behalf. But an off day is nothing to panic over, even if you can't pinpoint its cause. "One of those days" is just that - one - and tomorrow will be another. Why not make it "one of those days" to remember?

—Emma Aubry Roberts