10 Small Habits That Can Make a Big Difference in Your Day

1. Drink Water First Thing in the Morning

It’s easy to reach for that cup of coffee as soon as you wake up, but try swapping it for a glass of water first. Hydrating your body after a long night of sleep jumpstarts your metabolism, improves your skin, and helps you feel more awake and energised.

2. Make Your Bed (Yes, Really!)

I know, it sounds like one of those “Mum” things, but hear me out. Making your bed first thing in the morning is a quick win that sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. Plus, it feels great to crawl into a made bed at night.

Actionable Tip: Start small, just make your bed each morning for a week, and see how it impacts your mood.

3. Take a Dance Break

Got 5 minutes? Perfect! Put on your favorite song and dance like nobody’s watching. It’s a great way to release stress, boost your mood, and give yourself a mini energy boost during the day.

Bonus: You’ll be surprised at how much a quick dance party can improve your focus afterward.

4. Practice 10 Minutes of Mindful Breathing

When life gets busy, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially as a busy mom. Taking just 10 minutes to sit quietly and focus on your breath can do wonders for reducing stress and recentering your mind.

Mindful breathing helps calm your nervous system, improves focus, and can even boost your mood. It’s a simple yet powerful way to clear mental clutter and feel more present in your day.

Actionable Tip: Set aside 10 minutes in your day whether in the morning, during a break, or before bed just to focus on slow, deep breaths. Try using a meditation app or simply count your breaths to help you stay focused.

5. Take the Stairs (Whenever You Can)

Instead of taking the elevator, opt for the stairs. It’s a small change that can add up to big health benefits, like improved cardiovascular health and stronger legs.

Bonus: You’ll feel like a mini champion every time you reach the top!

6. Make Time for Something You Enjoy

It’s easy to get caught up in responsibilities and forget to take time for yourself. However, it’s important to carve out moments during the day to do something that brings you joy. For me, one of the best ways to unwind is jumping into bed at the end of the day and watching a Netflix series. It’s a perfect way to relax and disconnect from the busyness of life.

Bonus: While indulging in some downtime is essential, be sure to limit your screen time so you don’t fall into the trap of binge watching for hours. Set a timer or choose a specific number of episodes to watch, so you can enjoy your relaxation time without losing the rest of your evening.

Actionable Tip: Find a hobby or activity you love whether it’s reading, watching your favourite shows, or crafting and make it a regular part of your routine. Setting boundaries around your leisure time will help you balance relaxation with productivity.

7. Write Down 3 Things You’re Grateful For

Gratitude journals don’t have to be complicated. Simply write down three things you’re grateful for each day. It helps shift your mindset and invites positivity into your life.

Bonus: It’s a quick habit that’s perfect for winding down before bed.

8. Smile at Yourself in the Mirror

It may sound silly, but smiling at yourself in the mirror can boost your mood and help you feel more confident. It’s like giving yourself a little cheerleader in the morning!

Actionable Tip: Try it tomorrow morning and see how it feels, nothing to lose but your frown!

9. Plan Tomorrow, Today

Take 10 minutes at the end of each day to plan for the next. Having a clear idea of your top priorities and tasks can help you hit the ground running and reduce decision fatigue.

Bonus: It helps you sleep better, knowing you’re prepared for the day ahead.

10. Laugh More

Laughter truly is the best medicine. It reduces stress, boosts your mood, and makes you feel lighter. Watch a funny video, read a funny meme, or just find something to laugh about. Even if you fake it at first, it can still do wonders!

Final Thoughts: Small Habits, Big Impact

You don’t have to overhaul your entire life to experience positive change. By incorporating small habits like these into your routine, you can make a big difference in how you feel, how productive you are, and how you approach each day.

Start by picking one or two habits from the list, and over time, see how they change your life!