Micro Habits That Help Me Stay Sane (Even When Life Is Full to the Brim)

Jun 26

Life is full right now. My husband and I both work full-time. I’m finishing a book I hope to publish soon, and I’m launching a small business from the ground up. We’re navigating the emotional and logistical demands of three aging parents, five adult children, and seven grandchildren ranging in age from just two days old to twelve.

The energy it takes to launch something is completely different than simply maintaining it. Add in the unpredictability of real life and the mental load can feel endless. But even in the middle of all this, I don’t feel burnt out or bitter. And it’s not because I’ve figured out some secret. It’s because I’ve started practicing micro habits that help me stay grounded.

Let’s jump into the ones that have made the biggest difference.

1. Start the Day With One Completed Task

Not a long to-do list. Not a major accomplishment. Just one thing. Make the bed. Drink a full glass of water. Put away the basket of laundry at the foot of the bed. Wipe down the kitchen counters before heading out the door.

It doesn’t really matter what it is. The point is to start the day with something finished. It builds momentum and reminds you that you’re capable, even before the day pulls you in ten different directions.

2. Write it Down

There was a time I journaled every morning. I still love it, I’m just in a season where my energy is focused on writing my book. But even now, when I jot something down whether it’s a thought, a prayer, a reminder, or a dream, it brings me clarity. It makes me feel like I’m meeting myself on the page instead of losing myself in the chaos.

3. Create a Sacred Space

This doesn’t have to be elaborate. But wherever you spend time your office, a favorite chair, the corner of your porch….make sure it feels good.

Add a blanket you love, a candle that makes you feel at peace, or a lamp that gives off the kind of light that makes you want to exhale. Even if it’s just a small space, let it serve as a sanctuary. You deserve a place that welcomes you.

4. Plan the Week Like

Sundays are my power day. I meal plan, I check my calendar, and I move items from my “Get Sh*t Done” list to actual time blocks.

This isn’t about being rigid. Its frontloading decisions and separates decision from action. Reducing stress and decision fatigue. When I already know what I’m eating on Wednesday or when I’ve carved out time to write, rest or email someone back, I don’t waste energy wondering when it will get done.

It also gives me space to flex. I work in foster care, and the unexpected happens all the time. But planning ahead means I’m not constantly reacting ….I’m simply rearranging.

5. Feel the Feels-Physically

I know this might sound odd, but hear me out: one of my favorite micro habits lately has been hugging more. Holding my husband’s hand. Giving my grandkids a squeeze. Even just sitting under a weighted blanket when I need to decompress.

when was the last time you were hugged? how did you feel?

We were made for connection. If hugs aren’t your thing, consider something simple that gives your nervous system that same "ahh" feeling warm tea, cozy socks, soft music, or that blanket that makes you feel safe.

6. Embrace the Imperfect

This might be the most important one. Stop chasing the perfect morning routine, the perfectly clean house, or the perfect family dinner. Sometimes the kitchen is a mess, you forgot to buy groceries, and everyone’s eating cereal out of mismatched bowls.

It’s OK. That’s life. It’s not supposed to be polished all the time. And honestly, those imperfect moments are often the ones we remember most.

Final Thought
The season we’re in is full, but it’s also rich. These micro habits aren’t about productivity for productivity’s sake. They’re about peace. About clarity. About presence.

I’d love to hear from you….what habits have helped you stay grounded when life feels like a lot? Leave a comment or send me a message. I read every single one.

With you in the beautiful mess,
Jennifer

Jennifer Dalton

I’m a seasoned human services leader with over 20 years of experience walking with families through some of the hardest roads they’ll ever travel. I currently serve full time as an Associate Director in foster care, where my core focus has always been people.

I hold a master’s degree in human services, and I am a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), but more than any title, my work has been shaped by what I’ve learned in the trenches: how to show up with compassion, lead with integrity, and hold space for healing.

Lately, I’ve been planting seeds beyond the system. I am writing a book for women who’ve wandered off the path, fought their way back, and want to lead from a place of healing. It’s a continuation of the same mission: helping others reclaim their voice, their strength, and their direction.

I’m also a mom to three, a bonus mom to two, and a growing gang of grandchildren. They remind me daily that legacy isn’t built all at once it’s shaped moment by moment, through presence, purpose, and connection

My career has been forged in the fire of frontline work, and now I want to build a legacy. I’m always open to connecting with others who care deeply about people, systems, and the stories that shape us.