10 Things That Make Me 1% Happier

Simple things that help me feel more human.

I turned 25 this year. And the more I reflect on how I want my life to feel, the more I come back to this idea: maybe it’s enough for something to simply make you a little bit happier.

Not because it checks a box or pushes you forward. Not because it helps you grow, learn, or improve. Just because it shifts something, your mood, your energy, your outlook, for the better, even slightly.

This morning, I wrote in my journal that something I did made me “1% happier.” It wasn’t a breakthrough or a major accomplishment. Just a moment that made the day feel a little easier to carry. That line made me think, what other things in my life have that same effect?

So here I am, sitting down and making this list.

Not of habits to optimize or routines to maximize. Just a handful of things that, for whatever reason, help me feel more like myself. The kind of things that don’t need to be justified, because they already do their job.

Here are 10 of them.

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1. Morning workouts

Waking up early and getting in a workout is one of my favorite things to do. There’s something about sweating it out before the world wakes up, especially on a sunny day, that sets the tone. Some mornings suck. But pushing through builds momentum. I start the day sharper, lighter, and already proud of myself.

2. Biking to work

After moving back from Germany, I chose to live close enough to bike to work. It was a small decision that made a big difference. The ride clears my head and helps me unplug from whatever stress is waiting on either end of the commute. It’s been the perfect reset, twice a day.

No traffic! :)

3. Writing

Whether it’s journaling or writing here on Substack, I feel better when I’ve put thoughts to paper. When I journal, I put on music, tune out the noise, and let it flow. When I write for others, it’s about connection, clarity, and sometimes even helping someone out. Either way, I always walk away feeling lighter.

4. Being in nature

Spending time in or near nature, especially around water, during a sunrise or sunset, has a way of slowing me down. Even just a short walk or sitting outside for a few minutes helps me reset. It’s one of the few times I feel fully present, without trying.

Cypress Gardens, about 30min outside of Charleston, SC

5. Talking about personal finance

I can go on for hours. I love the numbers, the mindset shifts, and the long-term planning. Give me a conversation about budgeting, investing, or debt strategies, and I’m in my zone. This isn’t about being obsessed with money; it’s about building freedom.

6. Time with my fiancée

Having someone who gets you, supports you, and grows with you is a huge source of joy. We go on walks, talk through tough days, and push each other to be better. She’s one of the biggest reasons I’m able to stay grounded.

7. A good cup of coffee

Up until this year, I am saddened to admit that I was an energy drink guy, and I still have some days where I default to those. However, I now understand the value of good coffee and how it can make your day better. I’m not a five-cups-a-day person, but in moderation, a little caffeine gives me the boost I need and helps me get in the zone.

Looks pretty good, right?!

8. Being around family

The older I get, the more I feel the weight of time. I notice my parents are aging. I realize how finite our time together really is. So when I’m with them, I try to be there fully. No distractions. No rush. Just soaking it in.

9. Traveling

Nothing fills me up quite like travel. Over the last few years, I’ve hiked in Alaska, road-tripped Maui, explored Yellowstone, skydived in Switzerland, swum in Croatia, run a half marathon in Spain, and lived in Germany for six months. These aren’t just memories, they’re reminders of who I am when I’m most alive.

Mentally, here way more than I should be… [Camp Olowalu, Maui, Hawaii]

10. A consistent sleep schedule

In bed by 10, up by 6. These are the hours that help me feel my best. Getting good sleep doesn’t just make me happier in the moment; it sets up the entire next day. Sure, I’ve had great late nights that broke this rhythm, but as a baseline, it’s unmatched.

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I know none of these things will change the world. They won’t fix every problem or solve every question I’m wrestling with. But that’s not the point. These are the small, quiet things that bring me back to myself. The ones I return to when life feels too fast, too loud, or too heavy.

And maybe that’s worth paying attention to.

If something makes you even 1% happier, that’s reason enough to keep it around. Stack a few of those moments together, and it starts to shape a life you want to live.

So here’s to noticing what works and building a life that makes space for more of it.

What makes you 1% happier? Have you given it any thought?

Let’s make it a great day, today!