“Take pretty pictures, light up a candle, read books, go for a walk, dance to your favorite music, buy yourself presents, do whatever you want, and be happy. This is your life, don’t let anyone take it from you”. – Parisandior
Have you ever wondered how to turn every day into a scene from your favorite movie? Do you feel like the main character every moment?
Living in Madrid, especially as a student, is the perfect place to romanticize life. Madrid has everything you need to make your coffee errands feel extraordinary. Start by having a different activity once a week. Here are a few suggestions for making everyday moments cinematic, from sunset walks to solo cafe dates.
First of all, start your morning like a movie scene
Wake up early, enjoy a delicious breakfast, and take a peaceful walk around your neighborhood, El Retiro or Plaza Mayor, while admiring the people walking beside you and the beauty of the city view. Find your go-to cafe, or go to a coffee palace you have been dying to try. It’s a perfect way to start your slow morning, get a delicious cappuccino or latte, bring your journal, book, or people-watch. Explore your surroundings, and notice the little details. Pay attention to the street performers, the sky, the smell of the fresh croissants, and the flowers on the street. Feel like the main character, listen to your favorite music or podcast while you walk to class, and set the mood for the rest of the day.
Romanticize studying
Most of us don’t find studying enjoyable, but finding the perfect aesthetic setting can improve our motivation! Study at beautiful libraries like Biblioteca Nacional or even go to IE Maria de Molina for a different view and for that academia vibe. If you prefer staying at home, light a candle or play lo-fi music to make it more cozy, and don’t forget to have an organized and clear space to relax your mind. To change the vibe, and if you work better in public spaces, try a different cafe, like Osom Coffee, La Bicileta, or Hanso Café for a change of scenery. Sometimes the pressure of being in public will make you focus more.
Have a slow and aesthetic evening routine if your morning is not the best
To turn your day around, watch the sunset from Templo de Debod, have a delicious picnic in El Retiro, or go to a rooftop bar like Azotea del Círculo. You can end your day with a solo dinner date at your favorite restaurant or a cute tapas bar. Order something new and take your journal or book with you. End the evening with a walk through Madrid’s light streets at night, where you are left alone, imagining you’re in a movie.
Take your time to reflect
Keep a digital or physical photo diary to document little joys like your morning coffee or bookstore finds. Write down one good thing that happened to you during the day, whether it’s a conversation, a random act of kindness, a reflection, or gratitude. Mediate and read your favorite book before sleeping to end the day as the main character.
Every day can be unique and extraordinary, even if it’s just taking your coffee. Even a small event can make you feel like you’re living in your movie, making you feel special and excited to wake up the next day. I challenge you to try at least one of these tips this week and see how it changes your perspective!
