Having something positive to look forward to can work wonders for your mental health by promoting optimistic thoughts about the future.  Start by scheduling a series of smaller plans like weekend day trips a few weeks in advance, and make big plans like vacations a few months in advance.  Put a post-it on your desk with the countdown to your next day of fun to keep you on track during times of stress. Studies have shown that looking forward to fun and happiness can provide benefits long before the good times actually happen.