It’s about the little things, when everything seems so big:

I think sometimes, no matter how organised you can try to be, life can feel like one of those nightmares. Not in a dramatic way, but in the way where you’re late for work, but you cannot run. You’re trying everything to get out the house, but just can’t seem to leave.

A million miles an hour but nothings getting done. Everything is split into to-do lists but never getting ticked off. Feeling like you’ve had a productive day, until you remember there’s a whole world out there that needs your attention.

And I’m only 21, living at home with half the responsibility of a ‘real adult’. Help me.

I think one of the biggest issues is feeling overwhelmed so having an hour to chill out and gather myself. News flash, this does not help. The line between relaxing and ‘putting off’ is so fine, I can’t see it no matter how close I get.

Everyone, meet my biggest enemy: Procrastination. I. Hate. Her.

But, instead of getting caught up in the negatives, I’ve started to gather a list of things that are productive but romanticised. The everyday, mundane thigs that might build up, but can be made a pleasant, positive experience.

By all means, I’m no professional so please keep that in mind! But here are five things that can transform your ordinary, everyday things into a scene from a film. Because yes, I am unrealistic, it’s better that way.

1.        Get yourself a nice robe:

Getting ready, doing your skincare, drying your hair, or even just making a coffee is ten times better in a robe. There are loads out there depending on what you require: warmth, fur, towelling, coverage… not much coverage…

My personal recommendation would be the Filter By Molly Mae Towelling Robe. I went for the brown to disguise all makeup and fake tan!

Getting ready in a nice robe makes me feel so much more put together. It’s almost like I’m at a luxurious spa, everyday.

Need some robe inspo? We’ve got you!

2.        A nice mug / glass:

I don’t think I’m alone in thinking a nice mug / glass/ bottle makes all the difference. Your morning tea might taste 10x better from a teacup and saucer, or from a bucket size mug with your favourite show plastered all over the front.

Coke or lemonade from a wine glass? Ice and a slice? Yes please.

You don’t have to be in a fancy café or restaurant to enjoy a drink.

Drinking water is so important and we’ve all seen the effect the Stanley Cup has had on the world this past year. The only problem? The price.

I’ll let you in on a secret, have a look in your local TKmaxx for ‘Hydrapeak’, their designs are almost the same as a Stanley for less than half the price! Amazon also sells this brand!

3.        A nice journal:

To-do lists help section all your daily errands and writing things down can help de-clutter your mind. I like to have two separate notebooks, one for practicality and one for a brain dump.

Having a pretty notebook can encourage you to use it purely for the aesthetic, until it becomes a habit.  

Being able to see everything you have to do helps with prioritising and can help alleviate the feeling of being overwhelmed. This also goes for writing down how you’re feeling at the end of the day, going to bed with an empty mind always helps me sleep better.

The University of Rochester Medical Centre states that: “Journaling helps control your symptoms and improve your mood by: Helping you prioritize problems, fears, and concerns. Tracking any symptoms day-to-day so that you can recognize triggers and learn ways to better control them.”

4.        Playlists:

The soundtrack of your life. Just like in Gilmore Girls, there’s a song for every occasion.

Sometimes it might bring energy, sometimes it might bring calmness, and sometimes it might help you focus.

Find out what works for you in different events and make a Spotify playlist.

Whether it’s for hoovering, making your bed or getting that uni reading done.

5.        A cosy, inviting space:

It’s a tale as old as time, tidy space, tidy mind.

Having an inviting, organised office or desk space can help with motivation and keep your focus. Try warmer lighting, candles or a rug to have the space feel more like ‘home’.

 The chances are, you’re more likely to get work done and sit down to get organised if you have somewhere you want to spend time.

It’s the same when it comes to tasks such as folding washing or putting away the weekly shop. Having organised cupboards/ wardrobes makes the process more desirable.

Don’t worry, I am well aware it is almost impossible to keep them organised, the key is to attempt to stay on top of everything. Tidy little sections at a time before they go past the point of saving.

I however am currently shoving things in my wardrobe and shutting the door, hoping everything stays stuffed in.

This is what works for me, and you might find some also work for you. Life can get overwhelming and sometimes the fog makes it hard to see an end that’s organised and productive.

Hopefully this has also inspired you to seek out methods that are tailored to helping you. If it brings you joy or ease, it doesn’t have to make sense to anyone else.

You can only do your best, and trying to appreciate the little things. Write everything down, keep your space tidy and welcoming and go purchase a robe!!

Happy cozy season!!

Written By Isabel Butler