Some days we wake up in a bad mood. It could of been the dream we had that we just can’t quite remember or that late night snack that gave us a fitful rest. It’s those days that it’s easy to just settle into that bad mood for the rest of the day. If we do settle into that bad mood, can we really blame it on the events that occur in our life. Can we then take it a step further and say that consciously we have no control over our mood. No I think we do have a choice. Sure events that occur in your life can, if you let them, negatively impact you. But truthfully you are the one that sets the tone and ultimately decides your mood. Your mood and how you respond to events, isn’t set by others, it’s set by you. You control your destiny. You are the one who sets your own mood. So what steps should you take to positively manage your mood and control your life.

1. Pause to think before you react. Once you react to an event you start setting a specific mood in motion. Think about the event that just occurred. Don’t automatically respond at a gut emotional level. Decide from the beginning where your mental focus should go.

2. Limit your emotional investment in the event. Think about what emotions you draw forth from any event. Then decide how much time you are going to let those emotions keep you tied to that event. How much emotional impact are you going to allow an event to take up in your life?

3. Change your mental focus. Do something to take your mind off of whatever it is that is setting a negative mood. Don’t avoid reality but switch focus from thoughts that are creating a negative mood to positive thoughts.

4. Focus your mind positively. If you shift focus to positive thoughts you move your mind into a positive thought process. Steer clear of negative emotional energy that can quickly drain you. Worry, anxiety, and fear should be avoided. Focus on positive moods: happiness, tranquility, and serenity.

5. Take your mood head on. Don’t ignore your mood. Face it head on. Analyze what is making you have a bad mood. It may not be one thing. It might be a number of things. When you look at events that are the source of your mood, you can better understand the impact they are making in your life.

6. Don’t spiral, focus. Don’t allow your mood to sink in. Sure in the beginning it may take less energy to ignore the process and let a mood take hold. However in the long run a negative mood can really drain you of the very energy you may need to stay positive. Don’t let your mood take control of your life. Don’t ignore the direction you are headed. Take control of your mood direction as early as possible.

7. Figure out what’s controlling your mood. First figure out what is controlling your mood at the moment. Then look at what might be controlling your mood long term. There are many factors, so it might take time to unravel and ultimately figure out. Thinking about what controls your moods will help you better understand who you are and will create a deeper awareness of what triggers your mood swings.

Many factors play a part in setting your moods. But, only you can control your moods. Ultimately, you set your mood and you determine the direction your mood will take you. Think, focus, and understand the causes that create your moods so you can create a positive mood you want to live with.