Monday

"I trust that I am enough, even in stillness."

Welcome to Monday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Habits that brighten your day

• The 1% Rule for growth

• The best gifts for tech lovers

• How to feel happy in your home

• Where to find creatine you can trust

Small Habits That Lift a “Blah” Day

Some days feel like they show up in grayscale. You are not sad, not overwhelmed, just… flat. Psychologists say this “blah” feeling is more common than most of us admit, especially when our routines get heavy. The good news is that your brain responds quickly to small changes, and even simple moments can nudge you into a better headspace.

Getting outside is one of the fastest mood resets. Less than an hour in fresh air can lower stress and spark that quiet sense of awe that makes everything feel a little more possible. Creativity can also help your brain shift gears. Doodling, cooking something new, or turning on a song you loved in high school is often enough to bring some life back into a sluggish day.

Connection matters too. A quick conversation with someone who feels safe can help you get out of your head. On quieter days, look for “glimmers”: those tiny pleasant moments your brain normally rushes past. Sunlight on the wall. A warm drink. A good smell. These little signals remind your nervous system that you are here, you are supported, and this day still has room to feel good.

The One Percent Shift for Daily Growth

There’s something surprisingly comforting about the 1% Rule. It takes the pressure off the dramatic lifestyle overhaul and replaces it with tiny, doable shifts that your brain can actually keep up with. Instead of chasing the perfect routine, you focus on getting just a little better today than yesterday.

The idea is simple: one small improvement at a time. Not an hour at the gym, but a five-minute walk. Not a new morning routine, but drinking one more glass of water. These micro-steps matter because they create consistency, and consistency is what turns actions into habits. Over time, those tiny choices compound in ways you can feel.

Psychologists say this kind of slow growth works because it keeps your brain out of overwhelm. When change feels manageable, you’re far more likely to repeat it. And repetition, even in small doses, builds confidence. It becomes easier to trust yourself, easier to keep going, and easier to layer new habits on top of old ones.

If big goals feel heavy, think smaller. One percent better is still better, and those little wins add up faster than you expect.

Viral Gadget Gift Guide (Or Keep For Yourself)

The best gadgets aren’t just cool... they solve real everyday problems. From clutter-busting tools to clever tech upgrades, these picks are making waves for their usefulness and ingenuity. We’ve rounded up the most talked-about items that people can’t stop adding to their carts. Each one combines practical function with a touch of genius, making them perfect for your home, office, or even as gifts. But be warned... demand is skyrocketing, and these top gadgets are already selling out faster than expected.

Learn more.

Thank you to ConsumerGiftGuide for sponsoring Note To Self. 

How To Feel Happier in Your Home

Some seasons, your home feels warm and grounding. Other times, it feels a little cramped or chaotic. The good news is that the feeling usually shifts with small, intentional habits rather than big renovations.

Start with tiny resets that make the space easier to breathe in. Clear one surface. Fold a blanket. Put stray items back where they belong. These simple tasks create order fast, and they help the room feel calmer without much effort.

It also helps to pay attention to what you already enjoy. Maybe it’s the light in the kitchen, a cozy corner, or the ritual of lighting a candle at the end of the day. Naming what feels good makes the space feel more yours again.

And if you’re craving something new, try one small upgrade. Fresh sheets, a thrifted lamp, or a plant on the table can shift the entire mood of a room.

Backed By Experts, Not Influencers: Creatine Done Right

Wellness Round-Up

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: Happiness tends to increase after age 50.

• 🌅 Sunset Of The Day: Sunsets are more than beautiful—they’re actually good for your mood. Got a favorite one? Reply to this email with your best sunset or sunrise photo for a chance to be featured!

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Happiness doesn’t have to be loud or constant. Sometimes it’s quiet, steady, and shows up in small, ordinary ways.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!