"Don't worry, be happy." If only it were that easy, right?

Having a positive outlook on life is valuable when it comes to your mental and emotional well-being. The problem?

Life isn't always positive. There are difficult times. There are legitimate problems that can't be overlooked or brushed off with a positive thought. There are times when we are going to want to feel upset, disheartened and angry by the circumstances of life.

In a world that chants the sentiment of "good vibes only" and "be happy" thoughts, it's easy to think there's something wrong with us if we don't feel this way. But there's a difference between thinking on purpose, and choosing thoughts that are helpful and valuable to us, and simply believing you just need to think positive about anything and everything.