8 Steps to Stop Being a Sad Person

Are you going through a complicated period and it feels impossible for you to find a small trace of hope? Follow these tips to stop being a sad person.
8 Steps to Stop Being a Sad Person

Written by Okairy Zuñiga

Last update: 15 December, 2022

At some point in our lives, we have all felt sad. Although we do not like to experience it, sadness is a natural emotion. Actually, it’s even useful. However, too much sadness can get in the way of who we are.

In this article, you’ll learn how to stop being a sad person.

In some way, sadness helps us to be more rational and find balance. The reality is that a life full of bliss and happiness would possibly be unhelpful and motivating.

However, staying in this state indefinitely is a problem that you must learn to deal with.

Are you going through a complicated period and it feels impossible for you to find a small trace of hope? Follow these tips to stop being a sad person.

1. Stop dwelling on the things that bother you

Sad person

The first step to stop being a sad person is to understand that dwelling on the same idea all the time is harmful and is useless.

Focusing all your attention on what depresses you will not only increase the sadness, but also the frustration of not being able to do anything about it. To stop this vicious circle, occupy your mind with other thoughts.

  • Disconnect by participating in any activity that is fun and keeps you busy. Maybe it will be difficult a little at the beginning, but gradually it will be easier for you.

2. Get moving

When exercising, the brain releases substances that increase our sense of happiness. To combat those moments of depression, you can try doing some physical activity.

There are several activities that you can try and you just need to find the one that is least tedious. Try several to find the one that best suits you.

  • Once you start exercising, you will feel better. As a plus, your mind will stay busy and you will get fit.

3. Get enough sleep

Get enough sleep

To stop being a sad person, it’s easier when your mind is relaxed. Remember that we need to sleep at least 6 to 9 hours a day for the body and mind to work properly.

If you are the kind of person who tends to stay awake, it is likely that lack of sleep is affecting your mood. In case your sadness is due to other factors, sleep will help you to relax and your mind to rest enough.

  • You will discover that everything looks better after sleeping several hours.
  • If you have trouble falling asleep, drink a relaxing tea or some warm milk with honey.

4. Surround yourself with positive people

group of people laughing

The people we surround ourselves with have a very important role in our lives. They affect our way of thinking and feeling. Like diseases, thoughts and moods are also contagious.

If the people you live with are negative, it is normal that you also begin to have the same type of thoughts.

  • To stop being a sad person, surround yourself with happy and positive people that help you see the good side of life.
  • It is very important that you are open to the messages and happiness of these new friends. Otherwise, it will be difficult for you to have positive emotions.

5. Anticipate moments of sadness

Anticipate moments of sadness

Life is like a roller coaster in which your emotions are changing rapidly. Therefore, it’s important that when you are well that you prepare for the sad and negative moments.

This preparation is achieved by creating and maintaining relationships with positive people, treasuring positive memories and learning to see that sadness has its positive side.

6. Change your routine

Relaxation Exercises

Doing the same thing every day and sharing your life with the same people can be depressing for anyone. To stop being a sad person, you need to get out of that monotony at the moment that affects you the most.

  • Add new things whenever you can or take a day off from work.
  • You do not need to strive to generate big changes. The reality is that small touches are enough to add excitement and freshness to your day.

7. Get a Change of air

Open window

One of the best ways to combat sadness is to change your environment. If your sadness is very deep, you may reach the point where even the environment is a constant reminder of your problems.

You do not need to make such radical changes as moving from home or from the city.

  • However, you can start by cleaning your room or rearranging the placement of some furniture.
  • Add some lights or decorations to cheer up. You will see that these small changes will lift your spirits.

It is about doing something that excites you and inspires you.

8. Do something to help yourself

relax your mind

You can not stop being a sad person just by making the decision not to feel that way. What you should do is try to find the reasons for your sadness.

Once you do, create a strategy to deal with it. Having an objective in mind will help you stay focused and it is possible that over time you will find the answer to solve your problem.

If sadness is a serious problem that is affecting your life in depth, seek the help of a therapist.


All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.



This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.