At the beginning of the year, you might have seen those viral reels about ‘romanticizing your life.’ Back then, I didn’t really pay much attention to the idea, but as the colder months approach, I’m realizing how important it is to start romanticizing my home life. With more time spent indoors on the horizon, I’ve been thinking of ways to make everyday moments at home feel more special and intentional.
1. Opening Windows
This might seem simple, but opening the windows at the start of each day is like a little ritual for me. We always keep the bedroom and kitchen windows open until it gets too cold to bear, but there’s something about that crisp morning air filling the house after a night of stillness. It’s a small thing, but it sets a refreshing tone for the day ahead. A stale smelling home certainly doesn’t sound like romanticizing home life.
2. Tending to My Plants
I’ve always loved having plants around the house, but now I’m choosing to be more mindful about how I care for them. Instead of viewing it as a chore, I want to see it as an act of nurturing something alive. My plants not only make our home feel lively, but they also clean the air we breathe. As I water them, I’ll take a moment to reflect on the beauty of life itself.
3. Doing a Puzzle
Nigel and I had a habit of eating dinner in front of the TV, but lately, we’ve been turning it off and just enjoying the quiet conversation. It’s peaceful. To take it a step further, I’m thinking of picking up puzzles for us to work on together after dinner. I think it could help us unwind and reconnect in a different way—plus, it’s something new for us to try together.
4. Creating a Physical Vision Board
I know it’s a little late in the year for this, but I believe if you can dream it, you can achieve it. I’m planning to make a vision board and hang it in our office to keep my goals in focus. Even with only a few months left, I want to remind myself to push toward those last few ambitions before the year ends. December, however, is off the books—I’ll be in full OOO (out of office) mode, with no plans to work!
5. Setting Up a Reading Nook
We don’t have a lot of extra space indoors for a reading nook, but we do have a cozy little balcony. All it’s missing is a proper lamp so we can curl up with a book in the evening. A little corner dedicated to quiet, personal time will be a perfect way to slow down and enjoy those chilly nights.
6. Cooking a Meal for Myself
This one is already a part of my routine, especially at breakfast time. There’s something deeply satisfying about cooking exactly what you want, how you want it, just for you. Bonus points if you throw on your favorite playlist while you’re at it!
7. Listening to Podcasts
I’ve been enjoying podcasts like the Huberman Lab and The Diary of a CEO lately. They can be a bit long, but I love plugging in my headphones and listening while I do housework. It makes mundane tasks feel more engaging and even a little luxurious.
8. Indulging in a Skincare Routine
My skincare routine has been a part of my evening for a while now, especially after dealing with eczema flare-ups. (You can read more about how I managed that in this post.) Lately, I’ve been thinking of getting a desk mirror so I can sit down and really take my time with it. I look forward to my skincare ritual every evening—it’s my ‘me time,’ and it’s a moment to truly care for myself.
9. Lighting a Candle or Burning Incense
I was recently introduced to incense, and I haven’t looked back since. There’s something so calming about the way the scent fills the room, leaving behind a serene, fresh atmosphere. If incense isn’t your thing, lighting a candle can have the same effect, whether for the fragrance or the soft, flickering light that makes the evenings feel a bit more magical.
10. Switching Off the Overhead Light
In the evenings, we’ve started using a floor lamp instead of the harsh overhead light. The soft glow of the lamp is much more soothing and creates a calming ambiance. If you haven’t tried this, I highly recommend it!
11. Upgrading Everyday Items
I’ve also been thinking of slowly upgrading my everyday items to more beautiful, aesthetic versions. Whether it’s a whimsical mug, elegant cutlery, or a quirky tea cup, cute teapot, scalloped wastebin, these little touches can bring a bit of joy to the everyday. Why not make your home a place that feels special, even in the smallest of details?
As the days grow shorter and the weather turns cooler, I’m choosing to romanticize my home life, making everyday moments a little more meaningful. It’s a simple shift in perspective that can turn the ordinary into something worth savoring.
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