18 people share the one thing they do every day to make their lives better

The one thing I do every day that makes my life better is working out to rap music. It reminds me that age is a state of mind. I may be 40 and a dad, but I can still be young at heart.

— Marc Anidjar, attorney

I carve out intentional "do nothing" time, free from guilt for not doing other things.

— Shanna Sawatzki, life sciences account manager

I literally try and dance every day. Whether it's a moonwalk into the kitchen or a death drop for a drag queen, it always instantly makes the day better.

— John Beck, marketing strategist

I take time in the morning to meditate and set intentions for the day.

— Antonia Hall, psychologist and relationship expert

Every afternoon, I exist outside. Even when weather isn't ideal, it's me, the kids, and my mosquito zapper.

— Stephanie Rudat, business development professional

I move my body daily, whether it's dancing, working out at the gym, going for a walk on the beach or in the forest, or cycling.

— Jenna Card, compassionate communication trainer

I listen to podcasts that are not depressing.

— Tania Young, medical receptionist

I read. An article, a book, something!

— Candace Nelson, content strategist

Before I get out of bed each morning, I do a visualization exercise. I visualize the manifestation of one of my goals in as much detail as I can, creating such visual pictures in my mind that it feels totally real.

— Carmen Wilde, business coach

Before I start my day, the first thing I do is stare myself in the mirror and say, "You are worth it."

— K Sos, musician

The one thing I do every day that makes my life better is yoga! Not only does it calm my anxiety, but it has truly strengthened my mind, body, and spirit.

— Lisa Schwartz, Diamond PR director

The one thing I do every day that makes my life better is practicing gratitude. Research has shown that a person can experience increased levels of optimism for up to six months simply by noting three things that make them grateful every day for three weeks. Practicing gratitude is key to achieving happiness in life and can also make us more successful.

— Rebekka Mikkola, cuddle therapist

Eat quality chocolate. Life's too short for that other stuff.

— Erin Meyer, emergency manager

I honestly don't know what I would do without music. Every day, without fail, I practice piano for at least 15 minutes. There is nothing like music to make me feel grounded and calm.

— Sara LeMesh, co-founder and CEO of Ayuda Care

I have written affirmations about who I want to become and the major life goals that I am working toward. In the morning, I recite these affirmations aloud, with emotion, to help start my day with the right focus, attitude, and mindset. This habit has made a significant difference in my energy, productivity, and quality of life.

— Ted Ma, motivational speaker

I grind my coffee and make a pour-over every day. Maybe that’s a bit simple, but it definitely makes my life better. Some nights, I can’t wait to wake up in the morning and make my coffee.

— Megan Padilla, writer

Getting hugs and kisses from my daughter gets me through the day. She's going on five, and I'm aware of how fleeting it is. Also, I have a stressful job and don't see her much during the week, so it's the best thing.

— Linn Edwards, photographer

I drink a green protein smoothie every morning. Even if I eat terribly the rest of the day, I can feel good that I at least ate some veggies and did something good for my body. Plus, the protein boost is great for my work flow.

— Simone Katerine Paget, columnist for the Toronto Sun