Here's a good idea. The next time you're feeling blue, or need a pick up write down a list of your accomplishments. I have mine next to my bed to consult when things get low, or especially when people put me down; because we always have to deal with that asshole at work, or that person or family member that tells you to just get over yourself... etc...

You can start easy.

I've gotten up at a regular hour in the morning for the last....

I've taken care of my personal hygiene for the last....

I've been regularly working at developing this skill....

I've held down a job for the last...

If you've got stuff your proud of write it down. Keep it where you can see it.

It doesn't matter how small it is, if your proud of it and you think reminding yourself of it is worthwhile write it down. This is not the kind of activity you want to compare yourself with others to. This is about you, and what you are proud of accomplishing.

coping, more cope...

When it comes to coping I'll try anything. I like to combine things especially with deep breathing. The biggest thing for me to set it off is exercise. I think that is big in a bunch of ways: the health factor, the fact that a lot of us are overweight from medication, and because it is a stress reducer. It sets the stage real good for other coping techniques. I'll get home after a run and pour a hot bath, plop in, and put some soulful music on; maybe some Al Green, Dennis Brown, Dee Dee Sharp. I'll take some deep breaths and relax as the songs soothe me. I think you could add some incense, that ain't hurtin'. I like to take my time and wash my entire body feeling the sensations, which is soothing and brings you into the moment. Not forgetting the fact that hygiene is forgotten by some of us, so this could be a great routine to add to your day. At that point I'm pretty relaxed, and it's good because it slows everything down. I get out and finish my ablutions, and put on my most comfortable clothes and I'm ready to go. I think the ritual is a great way to get fresh and ready for the world.

The whole ritual combines soothing, healthy exercise, and getting back into the moment. A potent mix!

it's a coping thing...

i discovered in the hospital by chance one of the most effective coping methods. the good news is, all it involves is your arms and an orange. now its sheer simplicity is beautiful!

now in DBT we come across the "distract, relax, cope," thing. well this is perfect. just scratch the surface of your orange to release its intoxicating scent. then find a comfortable place to lay down and begin throwing the orange up and down. periodically drink in the glorious aroma, and play games try to hit a certain spot on the ceiling, or see how close you can come to hitting the ceiling without hitting.

i love this little game. it goes well with or without some of your favorite musical jams.

distract - tossing an orange
relax - smelling your orange
cope - your already coping!

Pleasure.

Now I think that complacency is a big thing for people of all types, but especially the mentally ill. Getting complacent sitting like a brick as the day winds closer and closer to its end, only to repeat the process for days and days is no good.

Now here's a question, what have you done for you lately? No matter what our condition we are entitled to give ourselves pleasure. We need it.

Go for a walk
Discover some new music
Drink a new type of soda or other beverage
Cook something you've never tried before
Drive the car around and look at the scenery
Write in your journal
Take a long hot shower
Make plans with a friend, or if you don't have friends go to the supermarket and try and converse with strangers. Who knows... it might be good practice for you
Smell the fruit at supermarket. Oranges are my favorite.
Go for a bike ride
Pick up a musical instrument and just make sounds (who cares if you can't play, make some noise)
Go shopping
Research something your interested in (knowledge can be so refreshing)
Stretch
Meditate

etc... you get the idea

I think a little pleasure in our lives can go a long way. We forget in our torment that there's good feelings to be had. It's never more important than when you are at your worst to find pleasure even if it's in the most little minuet way. It can be the difference. So plan a little pleasure in your day. It may be just what you need.