The Little Things In Life

Since I’ve started this blog, I’ve gone from being a student, to a graduate, to a wife, to a student again, and then a mother. Time has been taken up by new responsibilities and new duties and new lessons. Finding time for the things I enjoy has been difficult.

But if one doesn’t try and find that time, one’s mental health can and will suffer, as I found out the hard way.

What do you do then? How do you carve out time without feeling guilty for shying away from responsibilities?

For me, it’s about finding the little things that bring joy. Yes, sometimes big things are also encouraged. Once in a while I take half a day to myself to go out and treat myself! Sometimes with friends, and sometimes on my own.

But the rest of the time, when I know I have other things to prioritise, I find my joy in the small things. Like a new book to read (though it’s been a while), or some fanfiction (I definitely find it easier to get into). Or, more recently, feel good cheesy movies or a unserious TV show. Hallmark movies and baking shows are my go to, but it is whatever sparks joy for you.

It is important to set aside some time and space for yourself to do things that you enjoy. Whatever that may look like for you, however you may be able to go about it. Maybe it’s getting some take out (a constant Friday afternoon for me), or making instant noodles in a new way (what my lunch on Wednesdays looks like). Maybe it’s crocheting a little stuffed toy for a friend or knitting a scarf for yourself. Maybe it’s something as simple as a chocolate bar or a mug of tea.

At the end of the day, you are taking care of yourself in these small little ways. It’s not about ignoring whatever life is throwing your way, it’s about remembering that you can and should prioritise some time for yourself. That your happiness and well-being matters.