Habits that reflect me!

A personal post today. Let me share some habits that reflect me.

Watching Sunrise

Every morning, I look forward to that magical moment when the sun peeks over the horizon and paints the sky in soft shades of orange and pink. There’s something truly calming about it—a simple yet powerful way to practice mindfulness and be present in the moment.

Our backyard faces east, which makes it the perfect spot to enjoy the sunrise. During winter, the sun doesn’t rise until around 7:30 a.m.—just after I’ve sent the kids off to school. That’s my quiet time, coffee in hand, soaking in the warmth of the early rays and the beauty of a brand-new day.

Photo by Tahir Shaw: https://www.pexels.com/photo/golden-hour-view-on-the-mountain-205410/

Coffee

I’ve never been a huge coffee lover, but I absolutely enjoy sipping a cup made by my spouse (he makes it best! ☕). For me, coffee isn’t just about caffeine—it’s about connection. It’s the warmth of shared moments, intimate conversations, and quiet comfort. Honestly, I think I love the smell of coffee even more than the taste.

And since science says coffee is good for longevity—cheers to more happy, coffee-filled years together!

Love for Soups, Salads, and Pasta

I’m convinced I must’ve been Italian in a past life 🤔 because I have an undeniable love for soups, salads, and pasta. Oddly enough, not pizza—which surprises everyone!

Even though cooking isn’t my favorite activity, I enjoy making soups in my Instant Pot. They’re simple, nourishing, and perfect for busy days. Pasta is another favorite—it’s hearty and satisfying, just like a good South Indian meal. When it comes to salads, I prefer mine with cooked veggies over raw lettuce. They’re easier to digest and still pack all the goodness.

Photo by Navada Ra: https://www.pexels.com/photo/bowl-of-soup-and-two-silver-spoons-1703272/

Prioritizing Tasks

I’m a detail-oriented multitasker by nature. Every day feels like a mental juggling act—calculating tasks, priorities, and deadlines. With two active kids, a full-time job, and a dance school I run on weekends, prioritizing isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Honestly, it’s the one skill (along with family support!) that keeps everything running smoothly.

Photo by Tara Winstead: https://www.pexels.com/photo/text-on-a-notepad-8386688/

Books

Books are my weakness. I love getting lost in a good mystery, thriller, or romance novel. I could read anytime, anywhere—even on vacations! But lately, I’ve been trying to rein in that habit.

I used to read before bed, but I realized it keeps my mind too active to sleep. And once I start a great book, I just can’t put it down until I finish it—definitely not ideal for a good night’s rest! Now, I’ve limited my reading to lazy weekend afternoons, which feels like the perfect compromise.

Blogging

And that brings us here—to blogging. Writing has always been close to my heart. Even though life has gotten busier and blogging sometimes takes a back seat, I still stay connected through travel writing.

We love exploring and hiking as a family, and after spending hours researching trails and itineraries, I enjoy documenting our experiences. My goal is to share practical tips and real insights that can help others plan their own adventures.

Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/blog-letters-on-brown-wood-262508/

Here are all my travel stories—written with love, curiosity, and a bit of wanderlust. 🌍💛

So, that's about some habits that reflect me. What habits define you?

Until next time,

This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon 2025

Health and Habits #BlogchatterBlogHop

First of all, Happy Ugadi / Gudi Padwa to all who are celebrating.

Ugadi is our Telugu new year and this year, we are celebrating on March 22nd. We prepare and eat 'Ugadi Pachadi' on this day, which is made with 6 different tastes: sweet, sour, bitter, spicy, tangy, and salt. 

Coming to this blog post's topic, I associate my health with my daily habits. 

We are what we are based on what we do regularly. Right?

There is one healthy habit that I am proud of.  I have a habit of detaching completely from work after office hours. Not checking emails or even not opening the laptop after 5PM. I kept my notifications Off on phone for office emails and slacks after 5 PM. 

You don't believe me when I say, my manager doesn't have my phone number. The only way he can contact me is through slack/ office email. Credits to my manager and his perspective on work-life balance. I am so grateful for that.

I consider my brain having a switch. After 5 PM it switches to family mode. It switches back to work mode only the next morning at 8.30 AM if it's not a weekend. I know, I am very fortunate to be working in such an organization that cares for the work-life balance of employees. 

Try these simple tips:

1. Keep your work notifications off after work hours or at night if not possible. 

2. Set an expectation to your team and manager that you will be offline after work hours and cannot respond immediately. Let there be some exceptions, but set an expectation.

3. Be mindful of whatever task you are doing. If it's work, it's 100% work and if it's a personal task, give it a 100% as well. Don't combine tasks and multi-tasking is not for long-term success.

One habit I want to change is trying yoga daily. I know the importance of yoga on my health and peace. I know that 30 to 60 mins a day of yoga makes a huge difference in my life. I have experienced this difference. 

I prefer taking yoga classes in the morning. But, with kids' school arrangements, it's becoming tough. I am busy with my dance classes and kids' activities at least thrice a week. There has to be a way and I am going to find it soon. 

In this Telugu New year, I hope to make things right. 

What is that one habit of yours which you are proud of? And, what is that one habit you want to change?

Please let me know in the comments.

Until next time,

This post is a part of Blogchatter Blog Hop.