Author: Tracy Thomas 

It’s funny how often we overlook the simple things that keep us feeling grounded, energized, and balanced. Personally, I try to stick to a set of healthy habits in my daily routine—little practices that help me stay on track both physically and mentally. But every now and then, I find myself becoming complacent, thinking, Oh, it’s fine if I skip that for a week.

At first, it didn't feel like a big deal. But then I start to notice the shift—my mood dips, my energy fades, and even my ability to handle stress feels compromised. It’s at these moments that I’m reminded just how much these small, daily actions actually matter.

Small Decisions, Big Impact

What always surprises me is how much of an impact these seemingly minor habits can have when they come together. Moving my body, eating well, sticking to a consistent sleep schedule—it’s not just one of these things on its own. It’s the combination of all of them that creates a foundation for well-being.

What’s even more eye-opening is how these habits become even more critical during challenging times. When life throws an unexpected curveball—whether it’s a stressful work deadline, a personal conflict, or an external event out of your control—it’s easy to let self-care slip to the bottom of the priority list.

But ironically, it’s precisely in those moments when going back to the basics becomes most important.

Returning to the Basics in Difficult Times

When life gets tough, I’ve learned to ask myself a simple but powerful question: What can I do to help myself through this? More often than not, the answer lies in returning to those foundational habits—getting enough sleep, eating nourishing meals, moving my body, and finding ways to calm my mind.

These aren’t grand gestures or dramatic life overhauls; they’re small, manageable actions that remind me I have some control, even when the world around me feels chaotic.

What I’ve also realized is that these habits act as an anchor. They don’t solve the challenges I’m facing, but they give me the strength and clarity to navigate through them.

The Reminder We All Need

Sometimes, it takes stepping away from these routines to realize just how much they do for us. The absence of these habits has a way of highlighting their importance. It’s like a gentle nudge from life saying, Hey, these things really do work.

Whether it’s a brisk walk in the morning, a nourishing meal at the end of a long day, or even something as simple as taking five minutes to breathe deeply, these small decisions accumulate into something much greater.

So if you’re ever feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or out of sorts, start small. Ask yourself: What’s one thing I can do today to take care of myself? Then build on that.

Because sometimes, the simplest actions have the most profound impact—and they’re always there, waiting to support us when we need them the most.

Join Tracy’s How to Manage Everyday Stress short course to learn practical ways to lighten the load when life feels overwhelming.