How to Set Up Future You for Less Stress and More Joy

What’s something you’ve done in the past that your present self is grateful for? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Ever have one of those days where you wish your past self had done something to make it easier for your current self? Same. That’s why I’ve been doing small things lately to make my life calmer, more carefree, and joyful tomorrow. Future me deserves a solid. And since your next-day (and next-year) version likely does too, consider these small actions that pay off down the line.

How to be happier and more successful

Don’t take on “just one more thing.” Future you will appreciate not being overloaded with work.

Put “happy hour with the girls” on Friday’s calendar. Having something to look forward to can reduce stress and bring out that beautiful smile.

Write a compliment to your future self. Stash the note somewhere random and then forget it. You’ll feel good when you find it again.

Think of one or two setbacks. Plan for the “what ifs” now so you can know how to pivot and stay on track.

Rebrand those hard-but-good-for-you actions like saving instead of spending or picking a healthy meal over takeout. According to Psychology Today, framing your choices as small sacrifices rather than considerable burdens makes them more doable. That helps you stick with them.

Move it, move it. Dance, take a brisk walk, whatever. Regular movement can help you manage your weight over time, which lowers your risk for all kinds of health issues.

Go ahead, draw the line. Setting boundaries today makes it less likely that you’ll have to deal with nonsense or resentment later.

Save a “lift me up” note on your phone. Add songs, memes, activities, anything that raises your spirits. Turn to this list on those days when life is really lifing.

Plan for that “you know it’s coming” expense—an appliance replacement, vacation, or home repair. Calculate the cost and then set aside a smaller chunk each week, biweekly or monthly. It’ll help you avoid money messes later.

Finish this sentence: “I feel excited when…”Knowing what brings them joy is one of the habits of happy people.

Do the thing now, not later. Instead of pushing something off to tomorrow, knock it out today. That’s one less thing on your plate.

Learn how to DIY. If there’s something small you always have to ask someone else to do, like resetting the Wifi, figure out how to do it yourself. It will save you the stress of having to rely (and wait) on them to do it.

What’s something you’ve done in the past that your present self is grateful for? Share your thoughts in the comments below.