I recently came across the term “romanticize your life,” and to be honest, I wasn’t entirely sure what it meant. The word romanticize instantly made me picture myself strolling down a charming cobblestone street in Italy, the breeze gently lifting my flowy skirt—like a scene straight out of a movie.
But, then reality quickly came crashing down on me and I realized my current location was Iowa and NOT Italy!
This was NOT the romanticized life that I envisioned!
So, for those of us without a trip to Italy on the horizon, what does it actually mean to romanticize your life? And, how can I do it with my current POV?
The term romanticize your life means to shift your perspective and find beauty, joy, and magic in the ordinary moments of your everyday routine. It’s about slowing down, appreciating the little things, and creating experiences that make life feel more meaningful and special.
It doesn’t require extravagant trips or picture-perfect surroundings—it really is all about mindset and intention.
Although my current POV was a gas station in Iowa, wearing sweatpants and crocs, and not a cobblestone street in Italy, I decided to give it a shot.
Here is what I did: I put down my phone and I sat at a table outside. I was utterly present in the moment. I looked up at the sky and noticed the beautiful color blue. I slowly drank my coffee, ate my food, and savored the moment (yes, even gas station coffee and eggs can be savored!) I sat, ate, and enjoyed the moment fully and with intention. And you know what? It was awesome! My little gas station moment turned into a few minutes that I thoroughly enjoyed because I allowed myself the time and intention to enjoy it. Yes, I was still at a gas station, still wearing crocs, and the closest thing to cobblestone was the truck pulling in kicking rocks up at me.
But, it wasn’t about my surroundings; it was about my mindset. It was about being in the moment, engaging all of my senses, and allowing that simple moment to feel special.
Here are some small, intentional changes you can easily throughout your day that can help to create a more fulfilling and joyful life…. regardless of your current POV!
- Morning Routine:
- Take a moment to savor your morning cup of coffee instead of gulping it down as you rush out the door.
- Play some soft, uplifting music as you get ready for your day
- Take time to visualize what your life will look like when you achieve your goals– focus on how you feel
- Eat a nourishing breakfast: even if you have to prep it the night before, sit down and spend a few minutes tasting (not just scarfing down) your breakfast. Enjoy it
- Stretch: move your body to get out all of the kinks.
- Get up 5 minutes earlier: if your morning is jammed packed getting everyone else ready, wake up a few minutes earlier for some quality alone time
- Affirmations: have a positive affirmation that you repeat to yourself that fills you with calm and positivity
- Put down the phone: be present in the moment without the distraction.
- At work:
- Beautify your space: make your space visually appealing, even if it is just one small picture. Create a space that feels cozy or comfortable, as much as allowed.
- Organize your space: Having a clutter-free space is a simple way to feel calmer, comfortable, and in control
- Celebrate small wins: we all want to feel valued, but most of us don’t receive the validation on a regular basis. Why wait for someone else? Celebrate your own wins, regardless of how small they may be
- Bring a lunch: instead of grabbing a burger, pack your own lunch and fill it with foods that not only taste good, but feel good.
- Go outside: if at all possible, step outside a get some fresh air.
- Leave your desk: make it a point to move your body, even if it just means taking a leisurely walk to the restroom.
- Coffee breaks: bring a favorite mug or something that feels beautiful and savor your coffee break
- Dress your best: wear clothes that make you feel your best. If you are limited to what you can wear, incorporate a piece of jewelry or carry something beautiful in your pocket. Step up your clothing game any way you can.
- Stay Positive: limit the complaining and gossip. There is nothing romantic about negativity.
- Evenings:
- Put down the phone: focus on enjoying the moments in your own life—don’t waste your time scrolling through everyone else’s.
- Journal: Reflect on your day
- Gratitude: spend time giving thanks for all that your life is, even if it isn’t everything you want….yet
- Take a walk: engage your senses and truly see the beauty all around you
- Self-care: take a bath, light a candle, listen to music, meditate
- Connect with others: call a friend, or better yet, meet her in person
- Find a hobby: pick up an old hobby or discover a new one
- Take a class: the best way to experience more is to learn more…take an in-person or an online class.
- Read a book: not your phone, but a real book
- Slip into some pretty PJs: this is for YOU, not anyone else. Find a pair of pajamas that make you feel good.
At its core, romanticizing your life is about being present, embracing small joys, and making the everyday feel extraordinary.
Small changes can shift how you experience the world. Try one small change today and see how it transforms your perspective.
It isn’t about perfection (or even cobblestone streets in Italy) it’s about presence and appreciation.
Need a little extra help romanticizing your life? Download the Daily Reflection Worksheet for Free!!
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