We all have those days where everything seems to go wrong ̶ ̶ but there is a ray of sunshine in that dark cloud! Experts say enduring downswing can help set you up for a happier, healthier life! Here, easy ways to go from setback to success:

1. Mood-boosters that put your mind at ease!
The surefire secret to getting out a funk fast? Tapping into mood-boosting tricks as soon as bad news strikes! Here, neurologists Marie Pasinski, M.D. reveals how to turn yourself happy:

Singing your favorite song!
“Reciting words that resonate with you is a powerful way to buoy your spirits and strengthen your resolve during a tough time,” says Dr. Pasinski. Plus, it provides a diversion from negative thinking, which is one of the most effective ways to regulate mood. To compile your own library of inspiring tunes, visit SongLyrics.com.

Buying yourself a little something!
Research proves that even a small splurge, like a brand-new lipstick, can perk up a bad mood ̶ ̶ and you’ll get an even bigger boost if you snag something on sale! Purchasing a luxury item (such as Godiva chocolates) increases activity in the pleasure center of the brain ̶ ̶ and when folks discover the price is lower than expected, that activity is even greater!

Calling a friend!
Having a lousy day? Pick up the phone! When women talk with friends, they experience a surge of oxytocin, a calming hormone, reveals the Harvard Nurses Health Study. Another reason to reach out? An Australian study found that people who keep in touch with friends have more satisfying relationships, live longer and have a lower risk of heart disease and depression.

Heading outside!
Can’t stop thinking about a certain mistake? Go outside! According to a University of Michigan study, surrounding yourself with nature gives your prefrontal cortex ̶ ̶ the area of the brain that helps you focus ̶ ̶ an opportunity to refresh and recharge.

2. Secrets for skyrocketing confidence!
Your confidence can take a hit after a setback, but psychotherapist Karol Ward, L.C.S.W., says you can sidestep the low by relying on a few self-belief boosters:

Turning on the Biography Channel!
Even the most successful and influential people have had major setbacks ̶ ̶ and research proves that reminding yourself of that increases your belief that you’ll overcome your own. Short on time? Visit Biography.com and read a synopsis of an inspiring person’s life. A few to check out: Martha Stewart, Paula Deen and Oprah Winfrey.

Doling out a compliment!
University of Texas researchers found that when women made a flattering remark, they experienced a surge in their own self-esteem, too. The key? Be genuine, and add a heartfelt smile and eye contact so that both you and the recipient really know you mean what you say.

Changing how sit!
Sit up straight with your shoulders back and your chest out ̶ ̶ it’s a move experts have linked to a boost in confidence. Their study showed that once folks sat up straight instead of slouching, they were more likely to believe positive things about themselves and a higher level of confidence.

3. Success tricks that can’t miss!
Taking even a small step toward achieving a goal can help pull you out of the doldrums! Here, success coach Noah St. John, Ph.D., reveals his tips for making a comeback. Try:

Becoming a dreamer!
Imagine yourself in the exact moment of success ̶ ̶ whether it’s nailing a job interview or losing 10 pounds ̶ ̶ and you’re more likely to reach that goal! In a study of job applicants preparing for an Interview, a group that visualized themselves succeeding was 45 % more likely to be offered the position than
a group that skipped the step!

Writing goals in the right place!
You can increase your odds of success 30% just by jotting down goals online. The key? Doing it on a site with interactive message boards, such as MyLifeList.org. Getting support from others keeps you on track and builds momentum.

Perk up fast!
Since exercise is as effective as antidepressant medications at lifting mood, try doing 10 wall push-ups! To do: Place your palms against the wall at shoulder height. Bend your elbows to lower yourself toward the wall, then push yourself back. ̶ ̶ Amelia Farquhar

Our expert panel
Neurologist Marie Pasinski, M.D, is a professor at Harvard University Medical School and the author of the new book Beautiful Brain, Beautiful You: A 7-step Guide to a Better, Smarter, Younger You.

Psychotherapist and executive coach Karol Ward, L.C.S.W., is the author of Worried Sick and Find Your Inner Voice and has been featured on The Rachael Ray Show, American Morning and Lifetime Television.

Psychologist and entrepreneurial coach Noah St. John, Ph.D., is the author of The Secret Code of Success, 7 Hidden Steps to More Wealth and Happiness. He appears regularly on CNN, ABC and NBC.