How to Find Your Inner Merryman

And no, I’m not talking about some unrealistic “just be positive all the time” kind of happiness. I mean the kind that sneaks up on you when you’re doing something you love, laughing at something ridiculous, or simply noticing the good in an otherwise normal day.

So, in the spirit of embracing our inner Merryman (aka, the version of ourselves that finds joy in the little things), here are some simple habits I swear by to bring more daily cheer into work, life, and everything in between.

1. Start Your Day with Something You Enjoy (Not Just What You “Should” Do)

For the longest time, I thought a “good morning routine” meant doing all the right things—wake up early, stretch, drink lemon water, meditate, journal… basically, turn into a wellness guru before 7 AM. But the truth? Mornings should be about what actually makes you happy.

For me, it’s simple: I don’t check my phone first thing. Instead, I make my coffee, take a few slow sips (while it’s actually hot!), and listen to a song that makes me smile. No pressure, no to-do lists—just a moment for me before the world starts demanding things.

Find that one thing that sets the right tone for your day—whether it’s playing music, stretching for five minutes, or just sitting in silence before the chaos begins.

2. Romanticize the Little Moments

One of the best tricks I’ve learned? Find small ways to make the ordinary feel special. Because let’s be real—most of life happens in the in-between moments, not the big, exciting ones.

Instead of rushing through your morning coffee, drink it out of your favorite mug. Instead of eating lunch at your desk, step outside for a few minutes. Light a candle while you’re folding laundry. Turn a regular Tuesday night into a “movie night” just by dimming the lights and making popcorn.

I once turned a boring grocery store run into a full main character moment just by putting on a great playlist and pretending I was in a feel-good movie montage. It sounds silly, but guess what? It made a chore way more fun.

Happiness isn’t always about big changes—it’s about finding joy in the things you already do.

3. Move, But Make It Fun

I used to think “exercise” meant forcing myself to do workouts I didn’t actually enjoy. But then I realized—movement doesn’t have to feel like a chore.

Now, instead of dragging myself through a gym session I dread, I go for a walk while listening to a funny podcast, dance around my kitchen while making dinner, or have impromptu living room workouts that are 90% goofing off and 10% actual exercise.

Turns out, movement doesn’t just boost your mood—it’s one of the fastest ways to shake off stress and instantly feel better. So whether it’s yoga, biking, or just chasing your dog around the house, find a way to move that actually feels good to you.

4. Surround Yourself with Things That Spark Joy (and Get Rid of the Energy Drains)

Ever notice how some things in your space instantly make you smile? And others just… drain you?

A while ago, I went on a tiny decluttering spree—not a full Marie Kondo purge, but just enough to get rid of stuff that annoyed me. Old papers? Gone. Clothes I never wore but kept out of guilt? Donated. The random junk drawer full of things I might need but never actually used? Organized.

And you know what? It made a difference. Having a space that feels good makes you feel good. Whether it’s fresh flowers, twinkly lights, or just finally organizing that one drawer that haunts you, small changes can shift the energy of your whole space.

5. Create Tiny Moments of Connection

Some of my happiest moments aren’t big, planned events—they’re the random little check-ins with people I love. A voice note from a friend. A spontaneous coffee date. A text that says, “Hey, this reminded me of you.”

Life gets busy, but happiness thrives in connection. So even when schedules are packed, I try to make space for the small things—sending a funny meme, calling a friend on my drive home, or even just chatting with the barista while waiting for my order.

Because at the end of the day, the best parts of life aren’t things—they’re the people we share it with.

6. Let Yourself Have “Off” Days Without Guilt

Some days, despite all the feel-good habits in the world, I just feel… meh. And guess what? That’s normal.

For a long time, I thought happiness meant always being upbeat. But now I know real joy includes giving yourself permission to rest, recharge, and not have it all figured out every second.

When I’m having an off day, I don’t force myself to “fix” it. Instead, I let myself slow down—watch a comfort show, take a nap, or just accept that today might not be my most productive day. And funny enough? The more I allow those moments, the faster they pass.

Happiness isn’t about being cheerful 24/7—it’s about knowing you’re still okay, even on the tough days.

Final Thoughts: Happiness is in the Little Things

At the end of the day, finding your inner Merryman isn’t about huge life changes—it’s about small, intentional habits that make your everyday life a little brighter.

• Start your day with something you enjoy.
• Romanticize the little moments.
• Move your body in ways that feel fun.
• Create a space that makes you happy.
• Stay connected to the people who matter.
• Give yourself grace on the tough days.

Because happiness? It’s already in the moments you’re living. You just have to notice it.