10 simple ways to make today a special day

What makes a simple day extraordinary? It’s not always the extra special, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Sure, they are great, but life’s too short to only wait for those. A better approach is to appreciate how even seemingly small joys can make a whole day special.

Lately, I’ve been trying hard to focus on this. I feel like I’ve gotten quite good in recent years at creating special experiences – travels, weekend programs, just getting out and trying new things. What I still haven’t perfected is slowing down and appreciating simple things in our everyday lives.

So, I’m trying to be more mindful of the small joys of life. To be (more) like those people who always find the sunny side of things. To slow down a little, and appreciate what I do, what I have.

Maybe the secret is stop taking everything for granted.

The problem is we often only realize how valuable something is, if it’s gone. A very simple example: health. Do we actually think about and appreciate how miraculous it is that our body can function well most of the time? No, we only appreciate it if we are sick.

I want to be the type of person who appreciates things like that – my health, a relaxing weekend day, the early morning sunshine, a good coffee, a task well done, a hug.

After all, our life is as unique and special as we make it. And even small things can make a day special.

10 simple things that can transform any day

Start with a slow morning // 

Do not rush your morning, take your time to drink your freshly brewed morning coffee, make the bed, have breakfast, think through your day, and get ready in a comfortable pace (you can read about my slow morning routine here).

Wear your favorite, confidence-booster outfit //

Find whatever makes you feel beautiful, comfortable, and confident. Even better: prepare your clothes the night before.

Go outside on your lunch break //

Walk a little; eat your lunch at the park, or on a café terrace. Just don’t eat in front of your computer (one huge bad habit of mine).

Do the one thing you’ve been delaying //

All of us have something on our to do lists that is rolling over from one daily/weekly list to another. Today can be day where you’ll finally cross it off your list. Get over with it; you’ll feel such a great sense of accomplishment.

Compliment someone //

I firmly believe this is the most underrated and underused simple joy ever. Compliment a friend or a total stranger and see how happy that makes them.

Get some fresh flowers //

Choose some fresh flowers with the colors of the season. Alternatively, if you’re not big on spending on freshly cut flowers, buy a new plant. It’s almost crazy how such a small thing like some new greenery/colors in my home can be a source of joy for days.

Have a proper dinner with your family //

No rushed TV dinners today. Spend time with your loved ones, buy fresh groceries, cook together, make your favorite recipe or try a new one, eat together, have a great discussion – or just eat out if cooking is not your thing.

Write two lists: 5 things you love about your life and 5 things you’re excited about //

Sometimes just realizing how much joy we actually have in our lives is enough. Remind yourself regularly. Be thankful. And be excited about new plans and new adventures. Keep those lists and use them as regular daily joy reminders.

Do a self care hour at the end of the day //

Dedicate this hour exclusively to something you enjoy doing. Go on a long evening walk or work out, take a hot bath, have a massage, chat with a friend on a phone, read the book you haven’t had time for yet.

Go to sleep in freshly changed bedding //

Is there a better close to a day than crawling into nice, crisp, fresh-smelling sheets and bedding?

How do you make a simple day extraordinary?

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