Small Joys That Make a Big Difference (Especially for Solo Parents)

Jun 14
2 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Hi Friends! Today I'm sharing some small joys! Solo parenting comes with a lot of responsibility — and a lot of invisible emotional weight. Some days feel like a marathon you didn’t train for. Other days feel like you’re juggling flaming swords while someone asks for a snack.

But here’s something I’ve learned: small joys matter more than we think. They’re tiny anchors that keep us steady when life feels overwhelming.

These are the small joys that have carried me through the hardest seasons and made everyday life feel more charmable.

1. A Morning Ritual That’s Just for You

Before the day starts spinning, give yourself a moment that belongs only to you.

It can be:

A warm cup of coffee
Lighting a candle
A 3‑minute stretch
Sitting in silence before the house wakes up

I like turning on Spotify and vibing to my favorite songs while enjoying my morning cup of coffee. It’s not about the length of time — it’s about the intention.

2. A Weekly “Tiny Treat” Tradition

Once a week, I give myself a tiny treat. Nothing fancy. Nothing expensive. Just something that sparks joy.

Some favorites:

A chocolate bar
A new pen or bookmark
A latte I didn’t make myself
A cute $5 find

Lately, my tiny treat has been a new specialty drink from Dunkin Donuts! It’s a reminder that you deserve sweetness too.

3. Comfort Content You Can Sink Into

Solo parents don’t always have time for hobbies, but we do have time for comfort.

Try:

A cozy show (like The Great British Baking Show)
A feel‑good audiobook
A podcast that makes you laugh
A book you can read in tiny chunks

I like streaming standup comedy shows and laughing out loud. It’s background joy — and that counts.

4. A 5-Minute Reset Space

Pick one spot in your home that stays tidy no matter what. Mine is a little corner with:

Books
A candle
A soft blanket

Need to take a 5-minute breather outside? Set up your outdoor reset space with plants, hanging birdcages, hanging tea pots, and windchimes.

When the rest of the house looks like a tornado, my little reset spot reminds me I’m still in control of something.

5. A Weekly “Something to Look Forward To”

This doesn’t have to be big. In fact, the smaller the better.

Ideas:

A Friday night movie
A Saturday morning coffee and pastry
A midweek walk
A weekend bike ride
A Sunday brunch with a friend

Remember that anticipation is a form of joy too.

What I Hope You Take With You

Small joys don’t fix everything — but they soften the edges. They remind us that even in the busiest, loneliest, or most overwhelming seasons, there is still beauty to be found.

And you deserve every bit of it.

Sending you love!