It’s important to find happiness in the everyday. I think we all learned this during the Covid years, and I try to carry those lessons forward by making the small things count.
Here are a few little rituals that help me feel grounded and keep my week flowing.
Starting the Day Right
If I’m feeling stressed, I start the day with a cup of tea in the garden. No phone, just me, the birds, and the trees (hopefully with no rain!). This grounds me perfectly.
If the weather isn’t on my side, I’ll throw on my coveralls and take Nova, my dog, for a 20-minute stomp through the woods. It reminds me that I need to give myself time before I give time to anyone else. After all – I’m the captain of my ship.
Setting Boundaries with My Phone
I’m not a slave to my phone, but I do like dipping into social media. To stop myself from doom scrolling, I have a rule: I don’t touch my phone in the morning until the house is empty, my emails are checked, and my work tasks are mapped out.
I usually wait until the postman comes — that’s my cue for a tea break and a quick phone check. Once that moment is over, it’s phone away again. That little structure makes all the difference.
Savouring Deliveries
I’ll admit it — I love a parcel arriving. Whether it’s groceries, Hello Fresh, or something from Amazon, I make it an occasion. Instead of ripping it open right away, I wait until I’ve finished my main work duties. Then I make a brew, unpack the parcel slowly, and really savour the joy of something new entering my home.
Staying Connected
Each day, I try to reach out to a friend or family member. Sometimes it’s a text, other times a call. I don’t work through a list — I just pick someone at random. If they don’t reply, that’s fine. I’ve made the effort, and the rest of my time is mine again.
Moving My Body
I’m not chasing thinness anymore — just health. If I’ve been sitting at my desk all day, it’s hard to motivate myself, but I’ve learned that the days you least want to move are the days you need it most.
That might mean a brisk stomp through the park with Nova or following a YouTube workout at home. Either way, I always feel better afterwards.
Family Evenings
Once the day is done, all that’s left is family time. We have a rota system where one person chooses the entertainment each night. Around the dinner table, we decide: will it be a movie, a series, lighting the firepit, or relaxing in the hot tub with music?
It’s a small system, but it makes sure everyone has a say — and it keeps evenings fresh instead of slipping into groundhog day.
These little things mean that each day feels more intentional. I take time for myself, stay connected with others, and make sure there’s always space for joy.
👉 What are the little things that get you through your week? I’d love to hear your tips.
