10 Ideas to Make Every Day at Home a Little Better
When imagining how you can improve your daily life, it’s normal to think big: outfit a new kitchen, redesign the bathroom or extend the loft. But little changes — like giving yourself a future present or creating a “done” list — can go a long way too. Check out these suggestions for more happiness right now.
1. Put Up a Picture
We’re not talking about investing in expensive artwork — this is about displaying any image that moves or inspires you. Pop it by your bed, above your desk or wherever you’re sure to see it. If you like, just stick it up temporarily with washi tape. However you do it, notice how much better your day feels when a picture you love catches your eye.
2. Write a ‘Note to Self’
Hang a piece of graphic art that amuses you or reminds you of a life truth. Or simply write a bit of wit or wisdom on a sticky note and put it up somewhere in the house. On a future date in your calendar, write an inspiring or funny note, such as “Stay amazing,” “Take a break” or “Eat chocolate at 3 p.m.”
3. Add One Item You Love to Each Room
Whether it’s a pillow, a piece of furniture or a simple vase, try to work one treasure that means something to you into each room. You may be amazed at how often your eye seeks it out, and at how gratifying it is to see it there.
4. Tuck Bucks Away
Leave a $5 or $10 bill in the pocket of an infrequently worn coat. When you find it again, it’ll be a gift from you to you. Do something thoughtful with it for yourself or a friend.
5. Keep Your Sheets Nice and Fresh
So simple but so effective! Nothing makes you feel more pampered than sinking into a bed made up with freshly laundered sheets. Make sure you always have a set clean and ready to use, and aim to change your bedding at least once a week.
6. Drink Water When You Wake Up
Your body loses fluid while you sleep, and you spend about eight hours without a drink. By the time you wake up, you’ll be slightly dehydrated. Start your day by drinking a glass of water before you move on to coffee or tea. It’s great for your health and can improve your skin too.
7. Invest in Another Pair (or Two) of Reading Glasses
Leave the spare readers in key rooms, so you never have to plod despondently around the house looking for them.
8. Read a Book
Fallen out of the habit of reading? It’s time to reconnect with books. Banish phones and tablets from the bedroom before bedtime, and go old school by reading a real book before you hit the lights. Research suggests that this will help you sleep better.
9. Wear Warm Clothes
I don’t mean woolly sweaters or lots of layers; I mean ones that are literally warm. On cold days, put clothes on straight from the dryer. It’s like wearing a hug.
10. Create a ‘Done’ List
To-do lists have a habit of constantly growing, which can be demoralizing. Every now and then, make a list of things that you’ve already achieved on your way toward a specific goal and add to it every day.
If you depend on a to-do list to keep you going, at least leave all the completed jobs on it, satisfyingly crossed off, to give you a sense of achievement no matter how many tasks remain.