We all have those days when life feels like it’s moving too fast, when we’re giving so much to others that we forget about ourselves. I’ve been there too many times to count.
That’s why I’ve put together this list of small but meaningful ways to nurture yourself. These aren’t grand gestures requiring tons of time or money – just simple reminders to care for yourself in a world that often asks us to keep going without pause.
1. Sleep like it matters (because it does)
Sometimes the most rebellious thing you can do is close your laptop, put down your phone, and just go to bed. Those emails will still be there tomorrow, but you’ll face them with a clearer mind. I’ve started setting a “sleep alarm” that reminds me it’s time to wind down, and honestly, it’s been life-changing.
2. Move your body in ways that feel good
Forget “no pain, no gain.” Move in ways that bring you joy, whether that’s a dance break in your kitchen, a gentle stretch when you wake up, or a walk where you actually look at the trees instead of your phone. Your body doesn’t need to be punished – it needs to be celebrated.
3. Create breathing room in your calendar
That weird pride we take in being “so busy”? Let’s leave it behind. I’ve started blocking off small windows of time that are just for me – no agenda, no productivity goal. Sometimes I just sit and look out the window. And sometimes, that’s exactly what I needed.
4. Feed yourself like you’d feed someone you love
Not every meal needs to be Instagram-worthy or nutritionally perfect. But try to eat something that makes your body feel good, not just full. My simple rule: add something fresh to at least one meal a day, even if it’s just some berries with my morning toast.
5. Reach out when you’re sinking
We’re not meant to do life alone. When things get dark—and they do for all of us—send that text, make that call. Simply saying “I’m having a rough day” can lift the weight. The people who matter don’t need you to be fine all the time.
6. Create tiny moments of pleasure
Life isn’t just about the big events. It’s also about the small joys: the perfect song at the right moment, sunlight hitting your face, the first sip of coffee. I keep a list of these tiny pleasures on my phone for days when happiness feels distant.
7. Let yourself be bad at things
We’re all beginners at something. Try that new hobby without the pressure of being good at it. I took up watercolor painting last year and my work looks like a kid did it—but the joy of swirling colors on paper doesn’t require masterpieces.
8. Protect your peace from digital noise
Your attention is precious. Be intentional about when and how you consume news and social media. I’ve started keeping my phone in another room until I’ve had breakfast, and that small boundary has made my mornings so much more peaceful.
9. Learn to say “no” without the guilt trip
Every “yes” to something means a “no” to something else. Often that “something else” is your own wellbeing. Practice saying “no” as a complete sentence, without over-explaining or apologizing. It gets easier with time.
10. Connect with what’s bigger than you
Whether through nature, spirituality, art, or community—find something that reminds you that your problems, while real and valid, are part of a bigger picture. When I’m spiraling, just looking up at the night sky can shift my perspective.
11. Release the pressure of “shoulds”
Notice how many times a day you tell yourself you “should” be doing something. Try replacing “I should work out” with “I could choose to move my body.” Feel the difference? One is pressure, the other is possibility.
12. Create boundaries around your energy
Your energy is finite. Be protective of it. I keep a mental list of people who fill my cup versus those who drain it. Both have their place in life, but I’m careful about when and how much time I spend with the drainers.
13. Practice tiny bits of mindfulness
Mindfulness doesn’t have to mean hour-long meditation sessions. It can be as simple as feeling the water on your hands while washing dishes, or taking three conscious breaths before answering a call. These small moments add up.
14. Forgive yourself for being human
We all snap at loved ones, procrastinate on important work, or eat the entire bag of chips. Perfection isn’t the goal; how quickly you can extend kindness to yourself is. I try to talk to myself like I would a dear friend who’s messed up.
15. Celebrate your small wins
Finished your laundry? Made that call you’ve been dreading? Spoke up in a meeting? Take a moment to acknowledge your effort. We’re quick to focus on what’s left to do and slow to celebrate what we’ve already done. Try keeping a “done” list alongside your to-do list.
Nurturing yourself isn’t selfish – it’s necessary. These practices won’t fix everything, and you won’t do them perfectly (see #14). But over time, these small acts of self-care weave together to create a more resilient, joyful life. And that’s something worth working toward, one tiny step at a time.
