There’s this common idea that we should always feel good, always be productive, or always have the energy to tackle everything in front of us. But the reality is that our mental well-being isn’t something that stays the same all the time. Some days we feel great: energetic, motivated, and happy. Other days, we might feel drained, unmotivated, or just a bit off. This is normal, and it’s something everyone experiences at some point.

It’s easy to feel like there’s something wrong when you’re not feeling your best, but the truth is, we’re designed to go through these ups and downs. Our emotions fluctuate because we are constantly influenced by different factors in our lives, from our physical health to the situations we’re dealing with. Some days might feel harder than others, and that’s okay. It doesn’t mean you’re failing or doing something wrong. It’s just part of the process.

What’s important to remember is that mental well-being is not about constant happiness or energy. It’s about learning how to cope with those moments when things aren’t going as smoothly. It’s about acknowledging that bad days happen, and giving yourself permission to feel what you feel without judgment. You don’t have to be happy all the time, and it’s okay to not have all the answers. Allowing yourself to experience your emotions fully, without forcing yourself to “snap out of it,” is a step towards understanding and managing your mental health.

The good news is that these tough moments are temporary. They won’t last forever, and over time, your energy will return. When you’re feeling low, take it easy on yourself. Do what you can, even if that’s just taking a rest or doing something small that makes you feel a little bit better. Reach out to friends or family if you need to, and remember that there’s no rush to feel better. Sometimes, just letting time pass and taking care of yourself is the best way to move through those harder days.

So, if you’re going through a tough time or just don’t feel like yourself, try not to stress too much about it. It’s okay to not be okay sometimes. Life is full of ups and downs, and that’s what makes the good days even more meaningful. Take things one step at a time, and know that this phase will pass. You’ll feel better soon, and in the meantime, it’s perfectly fine to give yourself a break.

Isaure Pajot