Feel On Top Of The World

10 tips on how to feel more upbeat — from reciting a ‘gratitude alphabet’ to embracing Mondays

It maybe only mid-week but people are already looking forward to Friday. However, learning to embrace the start of the week is key to feeling happier overall, according to UK’s first ‘doctor of happiness’.

Dr Andy Cope, who has 15 years’ experience in positive psychology, explained that banishing Monday blues is one of 10 steps everyone can take to feel more upbeat.

The expert also explained giving longer hugs, cutting down on social media and doing a selfless deed for someone else are small ways to give you that boost. Speaking to Femail, Dr Cope shared his advice that helps you

Fall in love with Mondays

Living for the weekend can leave us depressed when Monday looms in, but Dr Cope explained it was better to gear up for the week with a positive mindset. “Research deem Monday as the worst day of the week for feeling downbeat. Nobody likes Mondays and everyone celebrates Fridays,” he said. “Dare to buck the trend. Stand up for Mondays! You spend a 7th of your life on Monday so quit waiting for the weekend and learn to love the start of the week.”

Be a hugger

There are many benefits to a good hug, and the longer the better. “The average hug lasts 2.1 seconds but for the love to transfer, a hug needs to last seven seconds or longer (but be warned, counting out loud spoils the effect),” he said.

Try a gratitude alphabet