Turn your next negative thought into a balloon. Imagine the shape and feel of this emotion balloon—its color and texture. Feel yourself holding the string as it floats above you. Next, watch yourself let it go and the negative thought float into the blue sky and away forever. This technique can work for any worry, doubt or other unpleasant thought in your head. Once this becomes a habit, you'll feel the strength of being in control of your emotions rather than the other way around.

More on letting go of negative thoughts and grabbing happiness...

• Louise L. Hay on the Amazing Power of Positive Affirmations
• Surprising Secrets From the World’s Happiest People
• Even You Can Become an Optimist
• Bouncing Back from a Bad Mood

Forcing yourself to smile may sound silly, but plenty of research shows that it can help you feel happier and short-circuit the stress response. So the next time you're feeling down or frustrated, make yourself smile for one minute— yes, a full 60 seconds. You have nothing to lose but a bad mood. You might even try practicing right now!

More on getting into a good mood...

• Happy at Last
• Bouncing Back from a Bad Mood
• Mood Changer
• Reduce Stress: Secrets to Staying Calm in a High-Stress World
• One-Word Secret to Happy Marriage

The next time someone cuts you off in traffic or is too slow starting up when the light turns green, send him or her a pleasant thought. Try I wish you happiness or May you be safe and healthy. This is an aspect of “loving kindness” meditation that can help to keep you calm and generate a feeling of compassion. Once you try this for a little while, you’ll have a whole new, softer outlook on your fellow travelers and a happier commute, and you’ll be a more relaxed driver!

More on the benefits of meditation...

• The Power of Compassion
• Why "TM" Is Making a Comeback
• The Power of a Personal Mantra
• Qigong for Beginners

Feeling blue? Have a cup of coffee. Several studies show that drinking as little as two cups of coffee a day lowers your risk for depression. But be sure to keep away from the sugar. Sweetened beverages have been shown to increase depression risk.




More on getting out of a bad mood...

• Bouncing Back From a Bad Mood
• Down and Depressed? Acupuncture Can Help
• Light Therapy: Not Just for Wintertime Blues