What strategies do you use to cope with negative feelings?

Because “just be positive” isn’t gonna cut it

We all have those days where the vibes are just… off. Maybe it’s work stress, maybe it’s the group chat drama, or maybe Mercury is up to its usual foolishness again. Whatever the cause, negativity can creep in and have you feeling stuck. And let’s be real—sometimes, the usual “light a candle and meditate” advice just doesn’t hit the way it should.

So, let’s shake things up. If you’re tired of the same old “self-care” tips that feel more like chores, here are 10 unexpected, out-of-the-box ways to kick negativity to the curb and get back to feeling like yourself.

1. Cackle Like a Villain

Ever noticed how satisfying it is when a movie villain throws their head back and laughs like they own the world? Channel that energy. Seriously, fake an evil laugh—loud, exaggerated, and straight out of a cartoon. Sounds ridiculous? Exactly. That’s the point. Science says laughter reduces stress hormones, boosts endorphins, and tricks your brain into feeling better. So, go ahead, cackle away.

2. Dance Like You Just Got a Promotion

There’s a reason TikTok dance trends are so addictive. Moving your body releases feel-good chemicals and gets that stagnant energy out. So, whether it’s Beyoncé, Megan, or your favorite 90s throwback, blast it and let loose. Bad dancer? Even better. Embrace the cringe.

Pro tip: If you can’t bring yourself to dance, at least strut around your living room like you’re on a Paris runway.

3. Roast Yourself—With Love

Self-deprecating humor, when done right, is like therapy without the co-pay. Instead of beating yourself up for feeling down, turn it into a playful roast. “Oh wow, I really thought drinking three iced coffees instead of water was a good idea? Bold.” A little lighthearted self-awareness can snap you out of a downward spiral.

4. Take a 20-Minute “Nope Nap”

Sometimes, life is too much, and the only answer is to opt out for a little while. Instead of doomscrolling, take a quick “Nope Nap”—20 minutes max, enough to reset without waking up feeling like you time-traveled. Bonus: If napping feels lazy to you, remind yourself that Beyoncé takes naps.

5. Start a Fake Argument With Your Mirror

Ever replay an argument in your head, but this time, you actually say all the right comebacks? Go ahead and have that imaginary debate—out loud. Get animated. Gesture wildly. Win the argument. No judgment. Just don’t get caught doing this in public.

6. Aggressively Hydrate

This is your reminder that half your problems might just be dehydration. Feeling sluggish? Drained? Irritable? Grab some water and chug. Give your insides a spa day. If you wanna be extra, drink it with dramatic eye contact in the mirror like you’re in a movie montage.

[ “The Connection Between Dehydration and Mood”]

7. Say the Wildest Affirmations

“I am a rich auntie in the making.” “My skin is so clear, people assume I drink green juice daily.” “I am dangerously close to living my soft life era.” Affirmations don’t have to be boring. Make them funny, make them delusional, make them work.

8. Go Compliment Hunting

There’s something addictive about hyping up random people. If you’re out and about, tell a stranger their shoes are fire. Online? Drop a “you are thriving, keep going” comment under a stranger’s selfie. Their joy will rub off on you.

9. Pet Something Furry (or Even Just a Pillow)

Science says interacting with animals lowers stress, but if you don’t have a pet, improvise. Hug a plushie. Run your fingers through a soft blanket. Pretend your couch cushion is an emotional support animal. Desperate times call for creative coping.

10. Give Yourself a Main Character Moment

You’re not just walking down the street—you’re in a coming-of-age movie. You’re not doing laundry—you’re in a dramatic montage of someone who’s about to make a power move. Romanticize even the most boring parts of your day. It works.

Feel It, Then Flip It

Look, nobody is positive 24/7. (And if they say they are, they’re lying or need a snack.) The key isn’t pretending bad days don’t exist—it’s finding ways to ride the wave without letting it take you under. So, next time negativity tries to ruin your mood, pull out one of these tricks and remind yourself: You’re too good for bad vibes.

Now, your turn—what’s your weirdest, most random way to snap out of a funk? Drop it in the comments!

Share your favorite mood-boosting trick on Instagram and tag @fiercemillennial!