Good Mood First

To-Do lists can be incredibly helpful in our attempts to be productive and efficient with our time. But sometimes, there may be that one (or several) to-do list items that seem insurmountable. We all know the feeling - sometimes it takes not only physical energy, but tremendous mental and emotional energy to complete certain tasks.

If you look through your to-do list and spot some items like that on your list, before jumping into the hectic schedule of the day, take some time to put yourself in a good mood. And for those of us who may feel guilty about taking care of ourselves first before our to-do list, now there’s research to support this practice of prioritizing your mental health!

Research following 30,000 participants suggests that when people are in a good mood, we are more likely to engage in solo activities that may be beneficial to us in the long run. Things like doing the dishes, going to the gym, completing the work report, or filing your taxes. Conversely, when we’re in a bad mood, we tend to seek companionship of our loved ones, instead of doing those beneficial solo activities.

Which means, if there’s an important task on your to do list that you find difficult to tackle, the best thing you can do is tend to your emotional wellbeing and put yourself in a good mood. Go for a walk, talk to a friend, play with your pets, or listen to good music. However it is you prioritize your mental health, you’ll be better prepared to check that item off your list, all guilt free!