Mental Health Matters: Start With One Small Thing
Photo by Olivie Strauss on Unsplash.
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PROJECT OF THE WEEK
I’ve been thinking about writing a short series of blog posts about mental health. Not in a big, abstract way, but in the everyday, practical ways we can take care of ourselves.
Because sometimes mental health support looks less like a breakthrough and more like… opening the mail.
When life feels overwhelming, the list of things we “should” do can start to feel impossibly large. The longer the list sits there, the heavier it feels. And the heavier it feels, the harder it is to start.
But here’s something I’ve noticed again and again—with students, with clients, and in my own life.
Small wins matter.
When you accomplish even a tiny task, your brain gets a little boost. A small hit of dopamine. It’s your brain’s way of saying, Nice job. Keep going.
And often, that small win helps shift something internally. You start to feel a little less stuck. A little less overwhelmed. A little more hopeful that the rest of the list might actually be manageable.
Getting Started
The task itself doesn’t have to be big.
It could be opening the stack of mail that’s been sitting on the counter so you finally know what’s in there.
It could be depositing the check that’s been sitting in your bag.
It might be replying to the text you’ve been avoiding, scheduling the dentist appointment, or picking up the prescription you’ve been meaning to grab all week.
None of these things are life-changing on their own.
But each one is a small step forward.
And sometimes, one small step is exactly what your brain needs to believe that forward is possible.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed right now, try asking yourself one simple question:
What is one small thing I could do today?
Then start there.
Just one small thing.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.