Coffee as a ritual. I am serious about my morning coffee. It’s sacred, a moment of zen, a non negotiable part of my day. I look forward to my morning coffee so much I once clapped as I poured the liquid gold into my favorite mug. I have multiple mugs with motivational quotes on the inside, so when I take my first sip I’m reminded to “be the change” “to live life in full bloom” and to “focus on the good” My coffee ritual always sets the tone for my day, sweetened with a hint of sugar and sprinkled with cinnamon, of course.
Planning My Week with Purpose I wrote down my dream map and I’m really trying to focus on what I want to accomplish by the winter solstice. Each Monday I access areas in my life I need to work on, and sometimes it’s a lot and getting everything done is near impossible. I set my intentions, manifest the life I wish to lead and I reset even in weeks of chaos.
Curating a “Main Character” Playlist I cannot stand silence. Literally, it drives me mad. So when I wake up, I put on my happiness playlist. Lately it’s the soundtrack from Pride in Prejudice. As I make my morning coffee in my beautiful mug I imagine a proper English breakfast and I’m transported to another era. That’s the beauty of a playlist. Sometimes I cook to music from the jazz era, and exercise to hard rock or disco. My music playlist enhances my mood, or helps me on days when I’m not feeling as motivated. Music has the power to shift my energy instantly. It’s not just background noise, it’s soul fuel.
Food as Fuel, Not Punishment. Food is fuel, it’s nutrition to literally fuel our bodies. It gives us the energy we need to do all thing big and small tasks. It’s also love. For me, it’s about choosing meals that make me feel alive, not sluggish. That means fresh, colorful, vibrant, plant-based. But it’s not about perfection, it’s about nourishment. Mindful choices. Gentle grace. And yes, sometimes vegan donuts. Just be careful to understand the difference between treats and binges. Ask yourself, “Do I want to feel good after I eat?” Let that guide your plate. There’s nothing like sharing a beautiful meal with someone you love.
Embracing Gratitude (Even When It’s Hard). When you are going through it, I mean really going through it, it’s so hard to say I am thankful. Your view of your situation skews the bigger picture. That’s the time to remember your gratitude. Gratitude isn’t just for the good days, it’s the light we hold up through the hard ones.
Each night, I quietly say 3 things I’m grateful for. Some days it’s big: a breakthrough I’ve been waiting for, a kind friend, an unexpected tip. Other days it’s small: a delicious meal, a funny cat video, a good hair moment. Every day I am always thankful for my husband James, my cats, our families and love. Being grateful transforms my mood and recenters me. Keep a “Joy Jar” or note in your phone. Gratitude multiplies when we name it.
I hope these 5 simple happiness habits help you as you reclaim your joy in a crowded, chaotic world.
love and light,
Rose