If you’re like me, you want to do big things that get big results. The reality is that improving your life is not black and white, and you can take small steps right now to incrementally make yourself feel better, one breath at a time. Add up enough little things and they start to make a meaningful difference.

1. Play music. Life is better with a soundtrack.

2. Go outside and look at the sky.

3. Drink a glass of water.

4. Pay someone a compliment. Watch their eyes light up.

5. Read a book or watch a show or movie from a different place, time or culture. The storytelling conventions will be new and unexpected, making each twist and turn that much more delightful.

6. Enjoy a good smell – put on perfume, light a candle, get some air freshener you enjoy, use essential oils or bake cookies…

7. Take a deep breath. Take another. Take one more.

8. Move your body – dance, take a walk or just stretch.

9. Write down three things you are thankful for.

10. Tell yourself you are doing a good job. Listen and believe yourself.

11. Do some art. Color, paint, draw, cut and paste.

12. Water a plant.

13. Feel something soft. Enjoy the sensation.

14. Take your shoes off and feel the ground with your feet.

15. Watch something funny and laugh until you cry.

16. Eat a piece of fruit.

17. Give someone a hug.

18. Set a timer for ten minutes. Sit down and breathe. Just breathe.