Have you ever ended your day thinking, I wish I had more time for that? Whether it’s spending time with loved ones, pursuing a passion, or simply taking a breath, we all have things we wish we could fit into our daily lives. But instead of just wishing, what if we made a conscious effort to prioritize these moments?
Here are a few things many of us long for—and some practical ways to make them a bigger part of our daily routines.
1. Spend More Time with Loved Ones
Life gets busy, and before we know it, days turn into weeks, and weeks turn into months without meaningful connection. I recently realized this when I got a text from a childhood friend saying, We haven’t caught up in forever! It hit me—I had been so wrapped up in work that I hadn’t made time for the people who truly matter.
How to make it happen:
✅ Schedule weekly catch-ups with friends or family, even if it’s just a quick call.
✅ Set a “no-phone” rule during meals to create space for real conversations.
✅ Plan small, intentional moments—like morning coffee with a partner or a short walk with a loved one.
🔹 Who is someone you’ve been meaning to connect with? Send them a message today!
2. Prioritize Self-Care Without Guilt
How often do we push self-care to the bottom of our to-do lists? We tell ourselves, I’ll rest when I have time, but that time never comes. I used to think self-care meant extravagant spa days, but I’ve learned it can be as simple as drinking enough water or taking a deep breath between meetings.
Ways to prioritize self-care daily:
✅ Start small—five minutes of stretching, journaling, or deep breathing can make a difference.
✅ Set a reminder to drink water, stand up, or simply check in with yourself.
✅ Reframe rest as productivity—because a well-rested you is a better you.
🔹 What’s one small act of self-care you can commit to today?
3. Make Time for Passions and Hobbies
Remember when you used to do things just for fun? Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, or writing, hobbies tend to take a backseat to “more important” responsibilities. I used to love playing guitar, but over time, I stopped. When I finally picked it up again, I realized how much I had missed it—and how much joy it still brought me.
How to fit hobbies into your routine:
✅ Block off 15-30 minutes a few times a week for something you love.
✅ Treat it like an appointment—because it’s just as important as everything else.
✅ Start small—if you don’t have time for a full song, play a few chords. Progress is progress!
🔹 What hobby or passion have you been neglecting? How can you make space for it this week?
4. Be More Present and Disconnect
We live in a world where notifications and endless scrolling compete for our attention. I recently caught myself checking my phone during a conversation and realized—I wasn’t truly listening. The best moments in life happen when we’re fully present, but technology often pulls us away.
Ways to be more present daily:
✅ Set screen-free zones, like the dinner table or the first hour of your morning.
✅ Take a few deep breaths before jumping to the next task.
✅ Go for a short walk without your phone—just observe the world around you.
🔹 When was the last time you truly disconnected? Challenge yourself to take a short break from screens today.
5. Practice Gratitude Daily
It’s easy to focus on what’s missing, but what about what’s already there? When I started a simple habit of writing down three things I was grateful for each night, I noticed a shift in my mindset. Even on tough days, there was always something—like a warm cup of coffee or a kind stranger’s smile.
How to incorporate gratitude into your day:
✅ Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you appreciate.
✅ Verbally express gratitude—tell someone you appreciate them!
✅ Take a moment in the morning to acknowledge one thing you’re looking forward to.
🔹 Right now—what’s one thing you’re grateful for? Say it out loud!
Make It Happen—Starting Today
Instead of just wishing for more time, let’s start creating it. The truth is, life won’t slow down for us—but we can choose to slow down for what truly matters. Small, intentional changes can lead to a more fulfilling life.
So, ask yourself:
✨ What do I wish I could do more of every day?
✨ What small step can I take today to make it happen?
Don’t wait for “someday.” Start now. 🌟
Small Town Girl 