How to Romanticize Your Life Without Being Delusional

If you've ever been on Pinterest or the soft part of Instagram then you've probably seen the aesthetic videos,  a dreamy morning routine with an ambience and environment to die for. But let’s be real, instead of the aesthetic life's you’re chugging garri because that's your last option, and your “morning glow” is just oil on your face.

Romanticizing your life isn’t about faking luxury or pretending to live in a movie. It’s about shifting your mindset to find joy in the everyday, without falling into delusion.

What Romanticizing Life Really Means

Romanticizing life isn’t about pretending to be someone you’re not. It’s about:

• Adding little moments of pleasure –listening to a nostalgic song, rewatching your favorite series or dancing while you cook.

• Making daily routines feel intentional – Instead of rushing through tasks just so you could be done, you can enjoy them (even washing plates can be therapeutic with the right music).

How to Make Mundane Moments Feel Special

You don’t need fairy lights and candles, small tweaks can make a big difference:

• Set a vibe for your mornings – Play a playlist you love, drink your beverage slowly, and

stretch like a main character.

• Romanticize studying or working – Get a cute notebook, light a scented candle, or study in

a beautiful scenery when you can.

• Make meals an experience – Even if it’s just noodles, plate it nicely, sit down to eat (not

hunched over your bed), and enjoy it like a five-star meal.

• Celebrate small wins – Finished a tough assignment? Treat yourself, even if it’s just a quick snack or a silly selfie.

The Fine Line: Mindful Living vs. Unrealistic Expectations

While romanticizing life is great, don’t:

• Create an aesthetic just for social media – If you’re only “romanticizing” when the camera is on, you’re missing the point.

• Fall into comparison traps – Your life is your story, not a Pinterest board.

• Ignore real-life responsibilities – Manifesting a “soft life” is nice, but don’t forget to budget and pay your bills.

At the end of the day, romanticizing life is about feeling good, not looking good. It’s about finding joy in what you have, not wishing for something else. So yes, sip your tea slowly, enjoy your bus rides like they’re a tour, and romanticize your life, but don’t forget that real life is beautiful, even when it’s messy.