Create your Own Sparkle List
+ free printable!
A while ago @thelazygenius talked about creating our own Sparkle Lists, which inspired my husband and myself to sit down together for a brainstorming session for a date night. We created our individual lists and a combined Sparkle List.
We enjoyed this thought process so much and have referred back to it often on stressful or emotional days when we need a reset.
I even gave a mini presentation on this topic at our family reunion last summer and created a printable to go along with it. I’m sharing that free printable with you today!
But first thing’s first:
What is a Sparkle List?
A list of specific activities/hobbies/things that bring you joy.
A great resource to have on hand when you’re feeling low or overwhelmed.
Can (generally) be accomplished in a short amount of time.
Here's the list full of extremely specific things that make me happy.✨
set a timer and read
blooper videos/ voice actors
Jimmy Fallon music games
going to the mountains
favorite songs playlist
Great British Bake Off /The Repair Shop
lift weights
walk/hike with a friend
audiobook + walk/art
homemade cookies
fresh flowers from our yard
This video has a permanent spot on my Sparkle List. It’s very silly, but I could watch it every single day for a little pick-me-up.
On my version of the Sparkle List, I’ve divided the list into different time categories based on how long each item takes to accomplish. Here are a few ideas to help you create your own list:
Five Minutes or Less
favorite snack
song you love
short video
text a friend
make a list
Thirty Minutes or Less
exercise
read
go outside
call someone you love
short TV show
work in the garden
play a game
journal
paint/draw
craft
2+ Hours
Adventure!
movie
binge a show
activity with friends
work on a creative project
Now it’s your turn!
Having a physical list is more effective than just a mental list, so write down your ideas. (I’ve included a free printable below so you can do just that!)
Brainstorm ideas for your Sparkle List!
Add to it as you think of new things.
Share with loved ones so they can help you remember to do the things that help you feel more like yourself on a regular basis.
When you are sad or overwhelmed chose something from the list to help you get back on track.
Tips for Designing your Sparkle List:
Be specific (not just a TV show you love, but a specific episode)
What activities make you feel more like yourself?
No shame allowed! This is not high brow or what you think “should” be on the list. You’re not trying to impress anyone, this is about what genuinely brings you joy.
I decided my list needed a permanent spot in my journal so I can refer back to it when I need ideas. Here’s a video of me creating my list:
I hope this is a helpful exercise for you! I’d love to hear what you add to your list!
In My Art Journal:
Around Here
Reading:
This middle grade graphic novel is STUNNING. The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous. The story is full of adventure and sweet friendships. Both my 8 year old voracious reader daughter and I loved it.
Wretched Waterpark by Kiersten White
I listened to this with my 8 and 11 year old and we could not get enough. It is funny and just a little dark (think Series of Unfortunate Events). Absolutely delightful. We’re already on to book two!
Meditations for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman
This book came along at just the right time for me. It’s full of short, manageable, bite-size shifts in perspective to help us reframe how we think about work/life/interruptions, etc.
Watching:
We’ve been watching The Tour de France: Unchained lately. I love sports documentaries and this is a stellar example of that genre.
In the House/Yard:
Flowers everywhere! Cosmos are just starting to bloom, the hollyhocks have taken on a life of their own. My blackberry lilies are at their peak. I bought a few perennials on extreme clearance last week and they are doing surprisingly well in the mid-July heat.
In the Shop:
Here’s to making the time for the things we love to do!
Heidi