Last Updated on January 13, 2025 by Angela Vaz
Have you ever found yourself longing for a life that feels more magical?
One where even the smallest moments carry a sense of beauty and wonder?
You don’t have to wait for a special occasion or a major change to feel this way, you know?
You can create a life filled with romance and charm right now, starting with the ordinary moments in your day.
That’s the beauty of romanticizing your life — it’s about falling in love with what’s already around you.
This is why I love reading – some books make me fall in love with the character’s life and I suddenly crave that sort of life – that’s slow, mindful but magical.
I talk about this in this post – 11 books that give off Studio Ghibli vibes!
I first discovered the power of romanticizing my life during a season when everything felt dull and repetitive.
Don’t get me wrong, I love my work! But I felt like every day was basically the same. I exercised, I worked, I ate, and then crashed into bed.
I used to look forward to the weekends.
I realized I was waiting for “big moments” to feel happy, ignoring the small, quiet joys in front of me.
One day, I decided to change that.
I lit a pumpkin spice candle during breakfast, put on soft music while folding laundry, and watched the sunset as if it were a show just for me.
Suddenly, life felt brighter, fuller, and yes, magical.
I want this for you.
If you’re ready to feel more joy and wonder every day, here are 25 simple ways to romanticize your life.
Trust me, these small actions will make a big difference.
1. Start your morning slowly
Instead of rushing out of bed, take a few moments to stretch, breathe deeply, and express gratitude for the new day.
Sip your coffee or tea from your favorite mug, savoring each sip. I just got this super cute Hello Kitty mug that I’m currently enjoying!
Mornings set the tone for your day, so treat them as sacred.
2. Create a playlist for your life
Music has the power to transform any moment.
Curate playlists for different moods — dreamy mornings, cozy evenings, or even for walking outside.
I have a lovely instrumental jazz playlist that I listen to when I’m doing writing work. I also have a coffee shop playlist that makes me feel like I’m sitting in a cafe!
Let your favorite songs make ordinary moments feel extraordinary.
3. Dress for yourself
Wear clothes that make you feel beautiful and confident, even if you’re staying at home.
A soft sweater, a flowy dress, or even a touch of lipstick can lift your mood. Since it’s become super chilly, I got this really cute sweater to wear while I work.
I’m not even kidding.
4. Light a candle
Candles create an instant atmosphere of warmth and romance.
Brownie points if it’s scented. I recently got this and I fell in love with it – it’s so woody and cozy!
Light one while you work, read, or eat dinner to bring a cozy glow to your space.
5. Take a walk without your phone
Leave your phone at home and go for a walk.
Unless you’re expecting a delivery, stop carrying your phone with you all the time.
Listen to the sounds around you, feel the breeze, and notice the beauty in the world — a blooming flower, a distant dog barking, or the way the sunlight filters through the trees.
6. Turn everyday tasks into rituals
Instead of rushing through chores, approach them as rituals.
Fold your laundry with care, arrange your dinner plate like a masterpiece, and clean your space as if it’s a meditation.
Slowing down makes these moments so much more meaningful.
7. Write a letter to yourself
Take a few minutes to write a kind, loving letter to your future self.
Initially, I found it silly, but when I read the letter – I’m always moved to tears because I find it so hard to believe how far I’ve come in life.
I discuss how to write a letter to your future self in this post.
Reflect on your dreams, your current joys, and what you’re proud of. Keep it somewhere safe to revisit later.
8. Read a book in a cozy nook
Find a corner in your home, add a blanket and a cup of tea, and dive into a book. Get lost in it.
Sometimes, it takes a while before you find your favorite genre.
I started with romance and self-help as a budding teenager but now I thrive on thriller and dark fiction. It makes a part of me come alive!
Make this your special retreat, even if it’s just for 10-20 minutes.
9. Treat yourself to fresh flowers
Buy yourself a bouquet of fresh flowers and place them where you’ll see them often.
Flowers add a touch of nature and beauty to your home and remind you to celebrate life.
10. Take photos of the small things
Capture the beauty of everyday moments: the morning light on your bed, your favorite meal, or a rainy window.
My phone is filled with photos of books I’m currently reading and my two small dogs.
These photos will remind you of the magic in your daily life.
11. Eat mindfully
Instead of rushing through meals, savor each bite.
Use your favorite dishes, sit at the table, and focus on the flavors and textures. Eating can be a beautiful experience.
12. Embrace handwritten notes
Write little notes for loved ones or yourself.
Stick them in a book, on the fridge, or in your journal. Handwritten words feel more personal and heartfelt.
I constantly write hand-written notes to my friends and I love doing this – it makes me feel so content.
13. Watch the sunset or sunrise
Take a few moments to witness the beauty of a rising or setting sun. At first, you’ll feel like it’s an ordinary moment.
But as you sit there and let the day wash over you – you start to realize how fast-paced our lives are and how much we need slow moments like this.
These daily events are free shows of nature’s artistry that we often overlook.
14. Play with your sense of smell
Scents can transport you.
Use essential oils, burn incense, or spritz your favorite perfume, even if you’re staying in.
Just because we’re staying at home doesn’t mean we need to dress and smell like a hobbit.
By taking these tiny steps, we can honestly beautify our lives so much!
Surround yourself with smells that make you feel good.
15. Create a vision board
Visualize the life you want by making a vision board.
Use magazines, printouts, or drawings to inspire you.
Place it where you’ll see it daily to remind yourself of your dreams.
16. Write in a journal
Take a few minutes each day to write about your thoughts, feelings, or dreams. Journaling is a great way to reflect and connect with yourself.
You don’t have to think too hard to journal.
The whole process is supposed to be natural – so don’t curtail yourself when you’re pouring out your thoughts.
No matter how dark and dreary it is, let it all out. This will help you get a clear perspective and also help you clear your mind.
It’s helped me control my anxiety and also get such a clear perspective on life!
17. Plan intentional self-care days
Every day needn’t be productive.
It’s okay to take a day to relax. It’s okay to just do nothing.
Dedicate a day to pamper yourself.
Take a bubble bath, do a face mask, or simply relax with your favorite movie/book.
Treat yourself the way you would treat someone you love.
18. Learn something new
Sign up for a class or teach yourself something you’ve always wanted to learn.
Whether it’s baking, painting, or a new language, learning adds excitement to life.
Our minds have so much potential and they want stimulation.
So, open yourself to new experiences.
19. Create a dreamy bedtime routine
Dim the lights, play soft music, and enjoy a warm drink before bed like a chamomile tea or a turmeric latte.
Reflect on your day and set intentions for tomorrow.
End your day as peacefully as you began it.
20. Celebrate small wins
Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small.
Treat yourself to your favorite treat or take a moment to say, “I’m proud of myself.”
I’d been meaning to do a gut test for a long time but I was so scared to actually do it. I finally overcame my fear and I’d never felt this proud of myself!
21. Surround yourself with beauty
Declutter your space and keep only the things you love.
Clutter makes us feel anxious and irritated. The fewer things you have, the more easily you’ll find it to focus.
I’m not kidding.
I have a nice post on decluttering your entire house room by room – give it a try.
Add fairy lights, plants, or artwork that inspires you.
Your environment has a big impact on how you feel.
22. Practice gratitude daily
Take a moment each day to write down or think about three things you’re grateful for.
Again, it seems trivial but it brings about so much warmth and peace.
Whenever I’m having a bad day, I write down what I’m thankful for. And it really helps me focus on the 99% of life that is actually going well for me.
Gratitude shifts your perspective and helps you see the beauty in your life.
23. Slow down your evenings
Turn off screens and enjoy activities that relax you — read, knit, or simply sit with a cup of tea.
Give yourself permission to unwind and recharge.
You’ve worked the whole day and now it’s time to wind down.
24. Dance like nobody’s watching
Play your favorite upbeat songs and dance around your home.
It’s fun, freeing, and guaranteed to lift your mood.
25. Be kind to yourself
Romanticizing your life starts with self-compassion.
For years I’ve been kind to people around me but spoke so negatively to myself. I’d criticize my skin in the mirror and force myself to be more productive.
I realized that I was doing myself a big disservice and I started changing the tone of my voice to myself.
Remember that kindness goes a long way.
Speak kindly to yourself, forgive your mistakes, and remember that you are worthy of love and joy every single day.
Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful.
By romanticizing the little things, you’ll find that every day has the potential to feel special.
Try these ideas and watch your world transform into something magical.
You deserve it.
