When life gives you lemons, what do you do? According to a new study, 'lemonading' can help you feel better.

The research, published in Frontiers in Psychology, suggests lemonading as a strategy to boost mental health by transforming difficult challenges into opportunities through a playful mindset.

The study, conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, surveyed 503 US adults and found that individuals with higher levels of playfulness were more optimistic, better at problem-solving, and maintained daily enjoyment despite adversity.

What is lemonading?

Originating from positive psychology, the concept of lemonading is all about creatively approaching hurdles as opportunities for growth. It’s not about brushing things under the carpet or faking a smile in the way you might expect from toxic positivity, but rather, about pursuing the possibility of enjoyable experiences among, and perhaps as a result of, the challenges you face.

How to try lemonading

Feel all the feels

Whatever hurdle you’re facing, be honest about how it makes you feel. Instead of suppressing difficult emotions, experience them authentically – perhaps by journalling or talking to a therapist. Self-compassion is key here.

Think outside the box

Lemonading is all about allowing yourself to be playful as you consider solutions. Try not to hold yourself back as you brainstorm your next steps. For example, if you’ve been made redundant, you might think about the opportunities this hard time could bring, such as retraining as a dog groomer, relocating to a new city, or reconnecting with an old hobby. Ask yourself: How can I make the best of this situation? You might find that ideas come to you when you’re doing something that gets you into a creative flow.

Allow yourself to laugh

Whether that’s making a date with a friend who always makes you laugh or finding time to watch your favourite sitcom, humour boosts mental health by reducing stress, enhancing resilience, and improving mood through endorphin release. It also encourages flexible thinking, which is essential for reframing challenges. While you navigate this tough time, give yourself permission to laugh – it could be the thing that nudges you forward.

Shift perspectives

Part of getting creative might involve visualising yourself in the future, where you have overcome your current difficulties. Imagine how you might look back on the situation and the steps you took to move through it positively. Placing yourself in this position and allowing your mind to wander can throw up potential outcomes – and pathways – you mightn not have considered yet.

Life’s challenges are inevitable, but how we approach them can make all the difference. By lemonading, you can turn setbacks into opportunities, find lols in unexpected places, and build resilience along the way.