Romanticize Your Life Italian-Style to Live La Dolce Vita This Fall

As the days get shorter and colder, there’s no better time to embrace La Dolce Vita (“the sweet life”). Inspired by the Italian way of savoring life’s small moments, here are some tips to help shift your mindset and romanticize your daily routine this fall.

Embrace Gratitude

One of the best ways to cultivate joy is by practicing gratitude. A daily gratitude practice can shift our focus away from what’s missing and instead highlight what’s right in front of us. Try these simple practices: 

• Gratitude journaling: Write down three things you’re grateful for every day. 
• Celebrate daily wins: Acknowledge the small wins—they add up!

Find Presence

Being present helps us notice the “glimmers” that we might otherwise miss—the colors of fall, a warm coffee, or the smell of fresh pastries. Try these habits to ground yourself in the moment:

• Charge your phone away from your bed or desk to resist checking it constantly. 
• Start and end your day without your phone for a peaceful reset. 
• Scroll intentionally to stay connected to your surroundings instead of mindlessly swiping.

Accept it: Perception is Reality

Once we accept that we choose the way we see the world, we can harness the power of our mindset. A positive mindset isn’t about constant cheerfulness or pretending life is perfect. Instead, it’s a conscious choice to approach life with optimism, resilience, and an open mind. This perspective shift can help you:

• See potential solutions instead of obstacles. 
• Build resilience and peace, even on tough days.

Reframe Negative Thoughts

When negative thoughts creep in, it’s easy to spiral. Instead, practice reframing them. Rather than focusing on the challenges or frustrations, try asking yourself, “What can I learn from this?” or “Is there a small win here?” This simple shift helps prevent the downward spiral and keeps you open to solutions and growth.

Simple Ways to Romanticize Your Life This Fall

Here are some ways to savor the season and find a little extra joy in your day:

1. Take a stroll somewhere new and explore. 
2. Write in a journal to reflect. 
3. Visit a cute cafe. 
4. Spend time outdoors and enjoy the fall colors. 
5. Try a new activity like an art project or cooking class. 
6. Make a new recipe. 
7. Watch a funny movie or show. 
8. Read a book. 
9. Call a loved one. 
10. Give someone a compliment.

Finding joy is a choice. So as you go about your fall routine, remember: La Dolce Vita is about savoring life’s small pleasures and approaching each day with a sense of curiosity and gratitude. 

How will you embrace La Dolce Vita this season? Tag @gratawellness and @appetitomagazine with your romanticized routine!