Life can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be miserable.

We all know those people who seem to have life figured out. They’re not perfect, but they’ve got a certain glow about them. Here are some small habits that might be making a big difference in their lives that you might want to adopt for yourself.
1. They actually unplug before bed.

These folks know the value of quality shut-eye. Instead of scrolling ’til their eyes hurt, they put the phone away and maybe crack open a book. It’s not always easy, but that screen-free wind-down makes mornings a whole lot less painful.
2. They say “no” without feeling guilty.

They’ve mastered the art of the polite decline. No elaborate excuses, just a simple “No, thanks” when something doesn’t fit their schedule or priorities. It’s like they’ve discovered that the world doesn’t end when they set boundaries.
3. They move their bodies daily, even if it’s just a quick walk.

These aren’t necessarily gym rats, but they make a point to get some movement in every day. It might be a 15-minute stroll or some living room yoga. They’ve figured out that a little motion can be a real mood-booster.
4. They practice gratitude, but not in a cheesy way.

You won’t catch them posting daily #blessed updates, but they do take moments to appreciate the good stuff. Maybe it’s a mental note or a quick text to a friend. It’s like they’re collecting little moments of joy throughout their day.
5. They tidy up as they go.

Their homes aren’t showroom-perfect, but they’ve got this habit of putting things away right after using them. It’s not about being a neat freak; it’s about creating a space that doesn’t stress them out the minute they walk in.
6. They have go-to meals for busy days.

These folks have a few quick, healthy meals up their sleeve for when life gets hectic. It’s not gourmet, but it beats falling into the takeaway trap every time things get busy. They’ve found that feeding themselves well is a form of self-respect.
7. They check in with loved ones regularly.

They’ve got this knack for staying connected without it feeling like a chore. A quick text, a funny meme, or a short call — they keep their relationships alive without letting them take over their lives.
8. They give themselves permission to have off days.

These people know that not every day is going to be amazing, and that’s okay. They don’t beat themselves up for having a lazy Sunday or feeling a bit down. It’s like they’ve accepted that being human means having ups and downs.
9. They set small, achievable goals.

Instead of overwhelming themselves with massive life changes, they focus on tiny, doable steps. It might be reading ten pages a day or saving a small amount each week. These little wins add up and keep them motivated.
10. They have a morning routine, even if it’s super simple.

It doesn’t have to be a two-hour yoga and meditation marathon. For some, it’s just making the bed and having a glass of water. This little bit of structure sets a positive tone for the day.
11. They limit their news intake.

They stay informed without drowning in the 24/7 news cycle. Maybe they check headlines once a day or listen to a quick podcast. They’ve found a balance between being aware and being overwhelmed.
12. They have hobbies that have nothing to do with their job.

These folks have interests outside of work, even if it’s just tending to a few plants or doing crossword puzzles. It’s like they’ve figured out that being a whole person means having passions beyond their pay cheque.
13. They’re not afraid to ask for help.

Whether it’s getting advice on a project or asking a friend for a favour, they don’t see needing help as a weakness. They’ve realised that no one can do it all alone, and that’s totally fine.
14. They make time for learning.

It’s not about getting another degree; it’s about staying curious. They might listen to educational podcasts, watch documentaries, or try new skills. They’ve tapped into the joy of lifelong learning.
15. They have boundaries with technology.

You won’t find them answering work emails at midnight. They’ve set limits on when and how they engage with their devices. It’s not about being anti-tech; it’s about being in control of their time and attention.
16. They celebrate small wins.

Finished a project? Cleaned out a junk drawer? They take a moment to feel good about it. They don’t wait for huge achievements to pat themselves on the back.
17. They have a budget, but it’s not super strict.

These folks have a general idea of where their money’s going, but they’re not tracking every penny. They’ve found a balance between being responsible and still enjoying life.
18. They make their bed most days.

It’s a small thing, but starting the day with this tiny accomplishment sets a productive tone. Plus, it’s nice to come home to a tidy bed.
19. They practice self-compassion.

When things go wrong, they don’t jump straight to self-criticism. They talk to themselves like they would to a good friend — with kindness and understanding. It’s like they’ve learned that being their own ally makes life a whole lot easier.