10 Positive Facts About Getting a Cold

Hi, I have a cold, and it won’t seem to go away. After being extremely frustrated for almost two weeks now, I’ve decided to start cutting the negativity and choose optimism. This list isn’t meant to be sarcastic (okay, maybe a little) or a pity party. It’s more about putting myself into denial a positive place so I can mentally move on with my life.

If you’re sick, as well, or if you find yourself coming down with something soon, I say we all flip the switch and choose to have a good attitude throughout our misery as we let the virus run its course. (Unless you need to seek medical attention first; in that case, please do so.)

I realize how ridiculous this concept sounds, but at a certain point, I think it’s necessary to force a bit of optimism. So here’s the good I’ve found in being ill from a cold:

1. Coughing is contributing to a six pack. Every time I have a coughing fit, I can feel how much it’s working my abs. Not my ideal way to work my core, but if you dig deep enough…#SilverLining P.S. Due to my sickness, I had to postpone my 31-Day Core Challenge.
2. You get to eat candy all day. I’ve been living off my Halls cherry menthol cough drops. They are a godsend. They’re basically candy, and I love candy, so there’s that. Sorry, teeth, but I need this.
3. Your tissue use is stimulating the economy. Let’s ignore all the trees I’m killing and focus on the fact I must be helping the economy through my bulk purchase of Kleenex. You’re welcome, Target.
4. You can be comfy AF living in sweats. No shame. Unless I’m heading into work, you’ll find me in heavy sweatpants and my husband’s sweatshirt (I’m glamorous these days). Comfort at its highest level.
5. You’re probably getting a lot of sleep. One thing I’m good at? Forcing myself to go to bed early. ESPECIALLY when I know my body really needs the extra sleep.
6. You’re hella hydrated. I haven’t had any issues with drinking a gallon of water every day, because it’s the easiest act I can do to help my body. Be gone, toxins! I don’t have the time or energy for this.
7. There’s no guilt in Netflix binge-watching. Matt was traveling for work last week, so I basically just plopped down on the couch after work every day, letting myself relax while catching up on Scandal.
8. You get to spend quality time surrounded by holiday decor. Our apartment is decked out in colorful Christmas lights and other festive decorations. I’m definitely not disappointed to be hanging out surrounded by that sort of cheer.
9. People are usually extra helpful. When people aren’t avoiding me because of my germs, I’ve found that they tend to be extra nice to me when I’m sick—it’s sweet.  Since Matt’s been back, he’s been going out of his way to make me comfortable. <3
10. You won’t get this virus again soon. When you get sick, your body creates antibodies against that specific pathogen, so the next time you’re exposed to it, your body attacks it before it can make you sick. Now…as long as I can ward off all the other things out there, that would be great.

Bingo bango bongo. That covers it. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go stimulate the economy some more because I’m running out of Kleenex.

How do you prevent or get rid of colds? I’m open to new ideas.