the little things that make me happy

I always love noticing the little details that send a comforting shiver down my spine. It baffles me sometimes that even the simplicity of lighting a candle can bring so much joy and coziness, or how cracking open a new book can make you feel instantly at home in the strangest of places. I think it is so great when we all can be comforted by these little things, since they can make us happy instantly, and once you conquer that, you'll be able to truly find beauty in things you never would have before. That's why, on this peaceful Monday, after crossing off all the things on my to-do list, I wanted to put together a post about my favorite little things. 

1. candles

This definitely comes at no surprise...but I really love lighting up a new candle with some matches and just lazing in the yummy scent it gives off. My favorite candles are from Anthropologie, specifically from their Boulangerie line, as well as Diptyque, P.F. candle co, and Bath & Body Works. They can transform any space into a romantic, cuddly type of atmosphere. Also, I got those new candle holders because I've been dying for them in rose gold and I finally snatched them up at World Market. Love the simply chicness they bring to that side table, and again, just sort of reminds you of another place in time.

2. a good book

I love the smell of books and the way they feel in your hand...no amount of technology can replace books for me. I just finished A Magnolia Story yesterday, and I absolutely loved it. It's crazy how much inspiration books can give you and teach you. I feel so much more happy, appreciative, and like I can accomplish my goals. Reading an empowering book like I just did can really leave you with pure joy and inspiration! I hope to read more soon and start a new collection in this new apartment, since I left all my old books at home. 

3. a clean closet

I love having everything clean, so when my closet is clean too, I feel like a whole new person. I love getting rid of old clothes, making way for the new, putting them in boxes to donate or sell. There's just something so rewarding about the whole process. I also love adding things to my rack and just seeing where my style is headed in that moment. It is just another little thing that inspires me so much.

4. healthy plants

There is nothing I love more than when my plants, after a couple of weeks, are still alive and thriving. I love buying new ones, taking care of them, and really learning how each watering and treatment is different for each plant so, when I'm older, I can remember them and have a really nice garden or plant collection. The greenery brings me so much happiness and it makes your space even more friendly and alive. If you're feeling down, go buy a new plant or a bouquet of flowers. Your mood will change instantly (well I can't guarantee...but I really hope!) 

5. skincare

I feel like I always mention skincare, mostly because I'm really obsessed, but also because I can't express how great it makes me feel. Just putting on moisturizer makes me feel like a better lady. I think it's because I grew up watching my mom use so many nice products and I always marveled at her collection, so I am so happy to start making my own. It's so fun trying out new products, seeing how they feel on your skin, what works. Simply getting a new hand cream makes me happy. Again, a silly, trivial thing, but that's what this post is about right?!

tiny tips on how to feel confident

Hi guys! I've always wanted to do a post about being happy, healthy, and confident, because I know how terrible it feels when we get into our glum days or how easy it is to feel insecure in this ever changing, pressured world. In the future I definitely want to do an elaborated post or even a video talking about being confident, but today I just wanted to put together some little things you can do that can help improve your mood and view on yourself ♡

don't be so hard on yourself

When you say negative things about yourself, whether it be aloud or in your own head, your mind, as well as your esteem, is getting beaten by harsh words and it can take its toll. Try, everyday, to stop those thoughts. Instead, replace it with something like "I am okay. I am beautiful. I can do this." I know it sounds unbelievably cheesy, but you have no idea the impact that this can have once you try doing it yourself. In saying negative things, the only person you are hurting is yourself. Stop those words, stop being negative, and open up to positivity and kind thoughts. Not only will you start being positive about yourself and start feeling great about yourself, but your attitude towards life will change for the better as well. 

don't compare

We're all surrounded by books, magazines, and tons of social media that influence the way we see ourselves. Make sure that you don't compare yourself to all the commercials, the ads, the photos that you see every day. It is important to know the difference between something/someone who inspires you and something/someone that has a negative effect on your self confidence. If there's an Instagram account of a person that you find yourself comparing every little thing about him/her to your life, unfollow. It is only having a negative impact, especially if you're not getting any real inspiration from the account. I used to follow a lot of models, until I realized...seeing their beautiful selfies every day made me feel so much less than. I unfollowed, and that's okay! Just know that on social media, there is always more and lives don't look as 'perfect' as they seem, ever. There is nothing wrong with not following someone because of jealousy or if they are having that strong, negative impact. Surround yourself with people, magazines, books that inspire you to improve yourself and who give you motivation!

take care of your body, your soul, and your mind

It is really important that you take time for yourself and treat your body the way it is meant to be treated. Drink water, eat veggies, take a bath and do a facial every once and a while, have some tea. You're probably wondering...well how would things like this improve my self confidence? Because it will make you feel purely good. Once you feel good on the inside, your outside will shine with benefits as well. I love my little pampering nights because not only does it give my mind a sense of peace, but I just feel really great and even 'pretty' the next day. It just truly can enhance your mood. It is almost like if you were to go to bed at 3am versus 10pm. If you were to go to bed really late, you'll feel sluggish and just want to throw on sweatpants in the morning. But if you get those extra hours of sleep, you'll feel great and ready to go the next day! Taking care of the body, mind, and soul will just help you feel happy, healthy, and confident. tell yourself you are beautiful, until you believe it (because you are)

Another amazing tip for self-confidence that I found to be so helpful: fake it until you make it. I know, again, this sounds like huh?? But the fact of the matter is, if you truly start telling yourself you are beautiful, you can do anything you want, the future is endless...your mind will believe it. And soon enough, you're really start feeling this way. Self-confidence is no easy thing...it took me YEARS and years to finally feel good in my own skin. It is hard, it is trial and error, it might take some tears...but it is all about changing your perceptions and opening up your mind to happiness, positivity, and light. Again, I know I sound like a yogi, but it really is true. Take pictures of yourself, write down your features and details you love, accept your flaws (because literally everyone in the world has them). Accept and love accept and love.-I really hope you found this helpful in some way. I just really want to do a post like this because so many people send me questions about self-confidence, and the things they say about themselves just makes me really sad. Please love yourself, please treasure yourself, there is no one out there like you. Remember, you are beautiful and were put in this world for a reason. Xoxo,Christie