Start each day with a smile

The best way to start a positive day isn’t flashy or complicated. It’s about setting the tone before the world gets loud. Here’s some tips that I've found really work for me when I'm carrying a lot on my heart.

1. Wake up gently

If you can, don’t grab your phone first thing. I know, I know. It's hard, but give yourself one week to just try this. Really, is there anything on that phone that can't wait another ten minutes?

Treat yourself to a much-needed minute to breathe. Stretch, and then simply notice that you’re awake. That pause matters. You're off to a great start.

2. Start with one grounding thought

It can be a prayer, a scripture, a line of gratitude, or even something as simple as:

Today, I will take things one step at a time.

or

Today doesn’t have to be perfect to be good.

You don’t need a full plan, just an anchor. But one thought doesn't fit all. We all have our special circumstances. Find one of these that works for you.

🌼 For a Young Mother

Start with grace, not order. Before the day takes off, take one deep breath and remind yourself that keeping everyone safe, fed, and loved already counts as success. If you get a quiet sip of coffee, consider it a bonus.

Anchor thought: I ’m doing the best I can, and that is enough for today.

💼 For a Busy Career Woman

Begin with intention, not urgency. Instead of jumping straight into emails, choose one priority that matters most today. Everything else is supporting cast.

Anchor thought: I don’t have to do everything, just the next right thing.

🌿 For Someone in Poor Health

Start with listening to your body. Some days the goal isn’t productivity, it’s comfort. Let the first act of your day be kindness toward yourself.

Anchor thought: Today, I honor what my body needs.

🌬️ For Someone with Anxiety

Begin with grounding, not planning. Before your mind runs ahead, name three things you can see, two you can hear, and one you can feel. Bring yourself back into the moment.

Anchor thought: Right now, I am safe.

🌸 For Anyone Feeling Overwhelmed

Start small on purpose.Make the bed. Open a window. Step outside for a minute. Small actions restore a sense of control and calm.

Anchor thought: I can handle this moment.

3. Do one small thing that feels like care

As women, we are awesome at taking care of others, but self-care doesn't always get attention. It can be something simple.

• Drink a full glass of water before anything else. It wakes up your body, helps clear the fog, and quietly signals that you’re taking care of yourself first.

• Coffee in a favorite mug.

• Opening the curtains and counting the birds you see.

• Stepping outside for a breath of fresh air.

Small comforts signal safety and calm to your body.

4. Move your body just a little

Nothing heroic. A stretch, a short walk, a few shoulder rolls. Movement helps shake off anxiety before it settles in.

5. Choose your “one thing” for the day

Not a long to-do list. Just one meaningful thing that would make today feel like a win if it got done. It can be simple like making the bed before you leave the house, or saying "no" to something that drains you, or even reading 5 pages in that novel that's been waiting on you.

6. Speak kindly to yourself

Remember, quite simply, a positive day doesn’t come from getting everything right. It comes from starting steady, staying present, and giving yourself room to be human.