Stoke boss Tony Pulis is determined to keep smiling even though his side face a tough January fixture list.
The Potters have tumbled down the table into the relegation zone after taking three points from a possible 18.
With Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham lying in wait for Stoke this month, the immediate future looks bleak for the Midland outfit.
Pulis, though, believes it is vital to look on the bright side if they are to avoid a speedy return to the Championship.
He said: "We know you have good runs and bad runs. The big thing you learn in the Premiership is you have to take it on the chin.
"You have learn how to lose without getting too down and too despondent. You have to box that up, put it to one side and make sure everyone who counts stays positive.
"It is difficult, however, especially when you have got used to winning in the Championship."
New arrival Matthew Etherington is expected to be handed his debut against league leaders Liverpool on Saturday following the midfielder's move from West Ham.
And Pulis feels Etherington's top flight experience, plus the feel-good factor of a new signing could prove vital in the weeks and months ahead.
"January is a tough month for us and by the time we get to Tottenham, Harry (Redknapp) will have bought all the sweets from the shop," he added.
"Certainly Liverpool will be difficult and we will have to try and replicate our performance at Anfield.
"We know what we are in for after the way they destroyed Newcastle. Liverpool are playing with loads of confidence, so it is going to be a tough call for us.
"Rafael Benitez is very organised and very meticulous in what he does. He works very hard on the shape of the team and the system.
"But every game we play at the Brittania is a special game and a special occasion. When the supporters are needed they come out in numbers and get behind the team. They have been brilliant this season."
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