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The Benefits of Not Rushing
Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash.
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Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
We recently had an early morning flight. And by early, I mean really early.
The alarm went off when it still felt like the middle of the night. I had a choice. I could have squeezed in every possible minute of sleep, or I could get up a little earlier and give myself enough time for our normal morning routine.
I chose the earlier wake-up time.
Was I a little more tired? Absolutely.
Was it worth it? Yes.
Instead of rushing around the house and starting the day stressed, we had a calm morning. There was time for breakfast, time to get ready, and time to mentally prepare for the day ahead. By the time we got to the airport, I felt organized and grounded instead of frazzled and overwhelmed.
It reminded me that sometimes the best choice isn't getting the maximum amount of sleep. Sometimes it's creating enough space to start the day well.
Getting started
I see this with students, too. You might have a 9 a.m. final and think, "I need every minute of sleep I can get." But waking up a little earlier to review your notes, eat breakfast, and get out the door without rushing can make a huge difference in how you feel walking into that exam.
The same is true if you have an important presentation, a big meeting, or a packed morning with the kids. Giving yourself even 30 extra minutes can create the space to practice, prepare, and begin the day with confidence.
A peaceful start to the day has a ripple effect. It helps us think more clearly, make better decisions, and handle unexpected challenges with a little more patience.
Sometimes being a little tired is easier than being stressed.
And on the days that matter most, creating a little extra margin may be one of the best gifts you can give yourself.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
Not everything needs
to happen today.
The Probably Not Today Notepad gives you a place to capture ideas, tasks, and projects that matter, just not right now. By moving them off your mental to-do list, you create more space to focus on what truly needs your attention.
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
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Choosing Our Response
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
"Emotion regulation is not about controlling what you feel. It's about choosing how you respond." — Adam Grant
I really like this quote because it shifts the focus from something impossible to something achievable.
Most of us know, at least deep down, that we can't control our feelings. We can't simply decide not to feel frustrated, overwhelmed, anxious, disappointed, or discouraged. Emotions show up whether we invite them or not.
What we can control is what happens next.
That distinction matters.
When we talk about productivity, planning, and organizing, people often think of calendars, to-do lists, and systems. Those tools are important, but our ability to respond to our emotions may be even more important.
Getting started
Think about the last time you felt overwhelmed by a long task list. The feeling itself wasn't the problem. The challenge was what happened after. Did you shut down? Avoid the task? Get stuck in worry? Or were you able to pause, acknowledge the feeling, and take one small step forward?
Emotions are a little like waves. They rise, they peak, and they eventually come back down. The goal isn't to stop the wave from coming. The goal is to learn how to ride it without letting it carry us too far off course.
The good news is that responding differently is a skill. It can be learned, practiced, and strengthened over time.
Every day, we have opportunities to make small choices. We can take a break instead of giving up. We can ask for help instead of struggling alone. We can choose one next step instead of focusing on everything at once.
We may not get to choose our feelings, but we do get to choose our response. And often, those small choices are what help us return to what matters most.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
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Mental Health Matters: You Don’t Have To Do This Alone
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
As I wrap up this Mental Health Matters series, there is one last thing I really want to say: it is okay to ask for help.
Actually, more than okay. It is brave. It is strong. And sometimes, it is one of the most important steps we can take for ourselves.
I think many of us grow up believing we should be able to “handle it” on our own. We push through. We minimize our struggles. We tell ourselves other people have it worse. But mental health is not something we earn support for by reaching a certain level of suffering. We are allowed to need help simply because things feel hard.
And the truth is, there are so many different kinds of support available.
Getting started
Traditional talk therapy can be incredibly helpful. But there are also support groups, trauma therapies, family counseling, coaching, mindfulness programs, and other approaches that may feel like a better fit depending on your needs and personality.
I also think it is important to say this: just because one therapist or one type of therapy did not work for you does not mean help will not work for you.
Finding the right support can sometimes feel a little like dating. Some people immediately feel like a safe fit. Others do not. And that is okay. You are allowed to try again. You are allowed to find someone whose approach makes you feel understood, supported, and comfortable enough to grow.
I have also seen how powerful support groups and community can be. There is something healing about realizing you are not the only person struggling. Feeling seen and understood can soften shame in ways that are hard to describe.
Throughout this series, I have talked about sleep, movement, mindfulness, nourishing food, gratitude, and other small habits that support mental health. I truly believe these things matter. Small consistent choices can make a real difference.
But I also believe many of these tools work best in connection with others.
We were never meant to carry everything alone.
Sometimes healing starts with a deep breath, a nourishing meal, or a mindful moment. And sometimes healing starts with saying, “I think I need some support.”
Both matter.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
Share this post
Mental Health Matters: Eat Nourishing Meals
Photo by Ivana Cajina on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
For years, I thought food mostly impacted physical health. Energy levels, weight, maybe sleep. But the older I get, the more I realize how deeply food impacts mental health too.
When I am eating nourishing meals made from real food, everything functions better. My energy is steadier. My patience is better. My mind feels clearer. Even the constant brain chatter seems to quiet down a bit.
And when life gets busy and I start grabbing whatever is easiest, I notice the difference pretty quickly.
I think many of us underestimate how much our brains need fuel. We expect ourselves to focus, regulate emotions, manage stress, and make good decisions while running on caffeine, sugar, or meals we barely had time to eat. But our brains and bodies are connected. The energy we put into our bodies impacts how we feel emotionally too.
Getting started
One thing that has made a huge difference for me is prioritizing meals with real food and enough protein. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Eggs and toast. Chicken and rice. Greek yogurt with fruit. A turkey sandwich. Simple meals can still be incredibly nourishing.
When we eat balanced meals, our blood sugar stays steadier, which helps our mood and focus stay steadier too. We are less likely to crash, feel irritable, or spiral emotionally because our bodies are better supported.
I also think there is something comforting about slowing down enough to nourish yourself. Preparing food, sitting down to eat, and listening to what your body needs can be a quiet form of self-care in a world that constantly encourages rushing.
Of course, this is not about perfection. I still eat convenience foods sometimes. I still have days where meals are random snacks eaten between errands and Zoom calls. Life happens.
But overall, I try to remember that caring for my mental health is not only about mindset. Sometimes it starts with the basics. Sleep. Water. Fresh air. Movement. Real food.
Small choices repeated consistently can make a bigger difference than we realize.
And sometimes, a nourishing meal is not just feeding your body. It is helping support your mind too.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
Share this post
Mental Health Matters: Prioritize Sleep
Photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
I know I have written about sleep many times before, but I truly could not create a Mental Health Matters series without talking about it again. Sleep is the foundation of mental health. When sleep is off, everything feels harder.
I used to think prioritizing sleep was mostly about productivity. And honestly, it does help with that too. When I am well rested, I am naturally more patient, focused, organized, and efficient. Problems feel more manageable. Decisions feel clearer. Sometimes it even feels like half of life’s problems soften after a good night of sleep.
But over the years, I’ve realized sleep is about so much more than productivity. It impacts our emotions, our resilience, our ability to cope, and how we move through the world.
If you are struggling mentally or emotionally, there is a very good chance your sleep has suffered too. And sometimes it’s hard to know which came first. Is your sleep suffering because your mental health is struggling? Or is your mental health suffering because your sleep has been disrupted? Often, it becomes a cycle where one impacts the other.
That’s why when life feels overwhelming, I try to go back to the basics.
Getting started
Simple sleep hygiene can go a long way. Creating a consistent wind-down routine. Lowering the lights at night. Putting the phone down a little earlier. Giving yourself more hours in bed so middle-of-the-night wakeups are less disruptive. Even planning for a short nap when possible.
None of these things are magic fixes. But they are gentle ways of supporting your nervous system.
I also think sleep is one of the first things we sacrifice when life gets busy or stressful. We stay up later trying to catch up on work, chores, emails, or even just a little quiet time for ourselves. I completely understand the temptation. But usually, the less sleep we get, the harder everything else becomes.
Sometimes caring for your mental health does not start with a big breakthrough. Sometimes it starts with letting yourself rest.
And honestly, that still counts as important work.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
Share this post
Mental Health Matters: Mindful Moments
Photo by Getty Images on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
One thing I have learned over the years is that mindfulness does not have to look perfect to still be helpful.
I think having a regular meditation practice is amazing. Truly. As many of my long-time readers know, I have tried for years to become someone who meditates consistently. I love the idea of sitting quietly every morning, fully grounded and centered before the day begins. But if I’m being realistic, it has always been something I have struggled to maintain.
For a long time, I viewed mindfulness as all or nothing. Either I was doing a full meditation practice or I was failing at it completely. But over time, I’ve started to realize that mindful moments still matter. In fact, they can make a surprisingly big impact.
Getting started
When the day feels overwhelming, even pausing for thirty seconds to take a few deep breaths and quiet my mind can help reset me. Not perfectly. Not magically. But enough to soften the edges of a hard moment.
Sometimes mindfulness looks like standing in the shower for an extra minute and letting myself breathe before rushing into the day. Sometimes it’s pausing before hopping onto my sixth Zoom call of the day. Sometimes it’s taking a deep breath in the car before walking into school pickup or before answering an email I’m anxious about.
These small moments may not seem life changing, but they add up.
I think many of us live in a constant state of rushing. We move from one task to the next without ever giving our minds a chance to catch up. Mindful moments create tiny pauses in the noise. They remind us to come back to ourselves, even briefly.
What continues to surprise me is how much of a difference these little pauses can make. A few intentional breaths can help me respond more calmly, feel more grounded, and move through the day with a little more patience and clarity.
So if you’ve ever felt like mindfulness “doesn’t count” unless you are doing it perfectly, this is your reminder that small moments matter too.
A sprinkling of mindful moments throughout the day can still make a real difference.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
Share this post
Mental Health Matters: Small Moments of Gratitude
Photo by Getty Images on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
Some seasons of life feel heavy. The to-do lists are long, emotions run high, and it can feel like the hard moments are taking up all the space. During those times, practicing gratitude can feel almost too simple. But I’ve found that gratitude is not about pretending everything is perfect. It’s about gently reminding ourselves that even in difficult seasons, good still exists too.
Gratitude is not wearing rose-colored glasses. It’s noticing the small things that help steady us. The friend who checks in. The quiet cup of coffee before the house wakes up. The deep breath after a stressful moment. The child who laughs from their belly. The stranger who holds the door open. The tiny signs that we are not carrying life alone.
Getting started
When we intentionally notice what we are grateful for, life begins to feel more balanced. Our brains are naturally wired to focus on stress and danger, especially when we are overwhelmed. Gratitude helps shift some of that focus. Not to ignore the hard, but to make room for both the hard and the good to exist together.
Some days my gratitude practice is big. Other days it’s simply noticing sunlight coming through the window or appreciating that I made it through a difficult day. There is no perfect way to practice gratitude. A journal can help. Sharing one good thing at the dinner table can help. Even pausing for a moment before bed to think of three things you are thankful for can gently change the tone of your day.
What I love most about gratitude is that it helps us notice the light. Even on the darkest days, there is usually still a small flicker somewhere. A helper. A moment of peace. A sign of growth. Gratitude helps us see it.
And sometimes, seeing that small bit of light is what helps us keep going.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
Share this post
Mental Health Matters: Don’t Forget to Have Fun
Photo by Getty Images on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
The other day, I caught myself saying, “I just need to get through this week.” And if I’m being honest, I’ve said some version of that more times than I’d like to admit.
Somewhere along the way, fun started to feel like a reward. Something that comes after the work is done…if there’s any time or energy left. And most days, there isn’t.
But when I think back to childhood, fun wasn’t something we earned. It was the center of everything. Playing outside, laughing with friends, making up games, losing track of time. It wasn’t extra. It was essential.
And I think we forget that.
We fill our days with responsibilities, appointments, and to-do lists, and then wonder why we feel drained. What if part of the answer is simpler than we think? What if we need to bring a little more play back in?
Not in a big, overwhelming way. Just small moments.
Getting Started
It could be turning on music and dancing in the kitchen for a few minutes. Playing a quick game with your kids. Calling a friend who makes you laugh. Watching something light and silly instead of something heavy. Doing something just because it sounds fun, not because it’s productive.
It’s not about how much time you spend. It’s about making space for it at all. Giving yourself something to look forward to. Letting joy be part of your day, not just the end of it.
Because when we allow ourselves to have fun, even in small ways, something shifts. We feel lighter. More present. A little more like ourselves.
So maybe this week isn’t just about getting through.
Maybe it’s about finding a few moments to actually enjoy along the way.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
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Mental Health Matters: Making Space for Creativity
Photo by Tanaphong Toochinda on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
The other night, I found myself sitting at the table after everything had quieted down. The to-do list was still there, of course. It always is. But instead of picking it back up, I reached for something different. A set of markers and a random piece of paper.
Nothing fancy. No plan. I just started coloring.
And somewhere in those few quiet minutes, I felt a shift. My shoulders softened. My mind slowed down. It wasn’t about creating something beautiful or impressive. It was just about doing something…different. Something that was mine.
We don’t always think of creativity as something essential. It can feel extra. Optional. Like something we’ll get to “when there’s time.” But the truth is, using your creative outlets can be a powerful way to support your mental health.
Getting Started
It doesn’t have to be big. It can be coloring, doodling, baking, writing, organizing a space, rearranging a room, planting flowers, or anything that lets you create, move, or express something from the inside out.
There’s something about creativity that pulls us out of the constant thinking and into the present moment. It gives our minds a break from the loops and the lists. It creates a little bit of breathing room.
And maybe most importantly, it reminds us that we’re allowed to do things just because they feel good.
So if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just a little off, try reaching for something creative. Keep it simple. Keep it yours.
You don’t need a lot of time. You don’t need to be “good” at it.
You just need to start.
Sometimes that small act of creating is exactly what helps you feel a little more like yourself again.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
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Mental Health Matters: The Power of Clearing A Small Space
Photo by Andrej Lišakov on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
There are days when the list feels never-ending. The kind of days where everything feels a little too loud, a little too full, and you’re not even sure where to start.
On those days, I’ve learned I don’t need to tackle everything. I just need to take back a little bit of control.
One of my favorite ways to do that is by clearing one small space.
Not the whole room. Not the whole house. Just one drawer, one bin, one corner that’s quietly been collecting more than it needs to.
Getting Started
Maybe it’s that desk drawer filled with random office supplies. The pens that don’t work, the paperclips, the things you keep meaning to go through. Or the junk drawer many of us all have. The one that somehow holds everything and nothing at the same time. Sometimes it’s as simple as going through winter hats, scarves, and gloves, noticing what still serves you and what’s just…seen better days.
There’s something grounding about it. You’re making decisions. You’re letting things go. You’re creating a little bit of space where there wasn’t any before.
And it’s small enough that it doesn’t feel overwhelming. You can do it in 15 minutes. No pressure, no perfection. Just a small, intentional reset.
It might not solve everything on your list. But it does something important. It reminds you that you can shift things, even in a small way. That you can create a little calm in the middle of the chaos.
And sometimes, that’s exactly where the overwhelm starts to soften.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
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Mental Health Matters: Connect With Someone You Care About
Photo by Taylor Smith on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
Connection. Real, in-person, human connection. It’s something we all crave, even if we forget it sometimes.
I’m not saying texting your friends, chatting while gaming, or messaging on Snapchat isn’t valuable—they are. But there’s something different, something powerful about face-to-face connection, or even a phone call where you really talk. That kind of connection has a way of grounding us, reminding us we’re not alone, and boosting our mood in ways that scrolling or quick messages can’t.
Think about it: when was the last time you really planned a connection with someone? Not just a text, but coffee, lunch, or a walk outside? Even 20–30 minutes can make a difference.
Getting Started
Try this as an experiment: before your meet-up, check in with yourself. How are you feeling on a scale of 1–10? Then, after, notice the difference. You might be surprised at how much lighter, calmer, or more positive you feel.
Connection doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It can be a quick coffee, a walk around the block, or a shared meal. The key is being intentional and making it regular.
The other thing I love about this practice is that it creates a ripple effect. When you feel supported and connected, everything else feels a little easier. Your mood lifts, stress feels lighter, and even small daily tasks can feel more manageable.
So this week, ask yourself: who matters to me? How can I connect with them? And when will I make that connection happen?
Even one meaningful interaction can be a small but powerful boost to your mental health.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
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Mental Health Matters: Setting Boundaries With Technology
Photo by Getty Images on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
I want to talk about something we all do, maybe a little too much: screens.
Social media, video games, endless scrolling… these tools are designed to keep us hooked. The short-form videos, the constant updates, they pull us in, and before we know it, an hour has passed. And while it can be entertaining, it also comes with a mental cost: comparison, self-judgment, and that little voice telling us we’re not doing enough or not measuring up.
That’s why setting boundaries with technology can be such a simple but powerful mental health practice.
Getting Started
Maybe it’s a “no phone at the dinner table” rule, so you actually notice your kids’ stories or connect with your partner. Maybe it’s turning screens off an hour before bed, giving your brain time to wind down and your body a chance to rest.
Even small breaks can make a difference. And the bonus? You can fill that time with things that actually improve your mental health: reading, journaling, stretching, or just sitting quietly with your thoughts.
Boundaries don’t have to be drastic. It’s not about quitting technology entirely. It’s about being intentional with it. About noticing how it affects your mood and energy, and giving yourself space to recharge.
Try experimenting. Pick one screen boundary this week. Notice how it feels. You might be surprised at how much lighter, calmer, or more connected you feel, not because you did more, but because you gave yourself a little space.
What’s one boundary you could try this week?
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
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Mental Health Matters: The Power of Getting Outside
Photo by Emma Simpson on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
As part of the Mental Health Matters series, I want to talk about something simple but surprisingly impactful: getting outside and moving your body.
We all know a sunny day can lift your mood, but even just being outside, sunny or cloudy, has real benefits. That fresh air, a little light, the change of scenery… it all helps. If the winter felt long or you notice seasonal dips in mood, spring is the perfect reminder to make getting outside a priority.
Getting Started
Movement doesn’t have to mean a gym session or a long hike. For me, it’s a quick walk with some fun tunes. I even mapped a route that takes me out my front door and back in 20 minutes, perfect for slipping in between Zoom calls.
Maybe your version looks different. Maybe it’s rollerblading, biking, scootering, gardening, or even mowing the lawn. All of these get your body moving and your mind outside, which helps you feel better.
And here’s the magic: when you feel better, the rest of life becomes a little easier. Tasks get done, priorities fall into place, and suddenly there’s space for that precious “me time.” Movement and sunshine are small, tangible ways to support your mental health, and that support ripples out into everything else.
So today, take a moment. Step outside. Move in a way that works for you. Even ten minutes counts. Your brain, and your mood, will thank you.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
Share this post
Mental Health Matters: Start With One Small Thing
Photo by Olivie Strauss on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
I’ve been thinking about writing a short series of blog posts about mental health. Not in a big, abstract way, but in the everyday, practical ways we can take care of ourselves.
Because sometimes mental health support looks less like a breakthrough and more like… opening the mail.
When life feels overwhelming, the list of things we “should” do can start to feel impossibly large. The longer the list sits there, the heavier it feels. And the heavier it feels, the harder it is to start.
But here’s something I’ve noticed again and again—with students, with clients, and in my own life.
Small wins matter.
When you accomplish even a tiny task, your brain gets a little boost. A small hit of dopamine. It’s your brain’s way of saying, Nice job. Keep going.
And often, that small win helps shift something internally. You start to feel a little less stuck. A little less overwhelmed. A little more hopeful that the rest of the list might actually be manageable.
Getting Started
The task itself doesn’t have to be big.
It could be opening the stack of mail that’s been sitting on the counter so you finally know what’s in there.
It could be depositing the check that’s been sitting in your bag.
It might be replying to the text you’ve been avoiding, scheduling the dentist appointment, or picking up the prescription you’ve been meaning to grab all week.
None of these things are life-changing on their own.
But each one is a small step forward.
And sometimes, one small step is exactly what your brain needs to believe that forward is possible.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed right now, try asking yourself one simple question:
What is one small thing I could do today?
Then start there.
Just one small thing.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
Share this post
Setting Yourself Up to Get Started
Photo by Getty Images on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
I set aside a full day to do my taxes.
The plan was simple: no clients, no meetings, just a quiet day to focus and get it done.
But, as we all know, life has a way of adjusting the plan.
The night before, I had to move a client to 8:15 p.m. Anyone who knows me knows I am not a night owl. Then, in the middle of the night, my kiddo woke up with a nightmare. By the time the bus pulled away the next morning, I was not exactly feeling rested or focused. I was exhausted.
But this was the day I had set aside to do my taxes.
I knew I needed a little reset before diving in, so I decided to take a short nap. The problem? I also know myself well enough to worry that I might wake up and start making excuses about why I should do the taxes later.
Getting Started
So I used a strategy I often suggest to my students and clients.
Before lying down, I set myself up to get started.
I opened my computer. I took out all my tax documents. I opened my spreadsheet and pulled up TurboTax. Everything I needed was right there waiting for me.
Then I set an alarm and took a quick nap.
When I woke up, I felt more refreshed, and there was no barrier to getting started. My computer was open, the paperwork was out, and the next step was obvious. So I jumped right in.
And it turned out to be a really productive day.
Sometimes the hardest part of any task is simply getting started. One small way to make that easier is to remove the friction ahead of time.
Lay out the materials. Open the document. Put the book on the table. Set up the space.
That way, when it's time to begin, you can just begin.
I’m curious, have you ever used this strategy to help yourself get started?
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
Share this post
The Part No One Talks About After You Reach the Goal
Photo by KaLisa Veer on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
Roman senator Pliny the Younger once wrote: “An object in possession seldom retains the same charm that it had in pursuit.”
When I first read that, I paused. Because I’ve felt that exact thing.
We spend so much time believing that when we finally get there—land the opportunity, reach the goal, finish the project—it will feel different. Bigger. Lasting.
And it does feel good.
For a moment.
Then the next morning, you wake up, make your coffee, and life continues.
Not because the achievement didn’t matter. But because achievement is a moment. Life is what surrounds it.
I’ve seen this in myself, and in so many of my clients.
Someone works toward something for months or years. They reach it. They feel proud. And also, quietly surprised at how normal it feels.
Because what filled their days wasn’t the achievement. It was the process.
The early mornings. The uncomfortable starts. The steady showing up.
The real life of it.
I see the opposite too. The things we dread for weeks—taxes, emails, difficult conversations.
And then once they’re done, the relief is immediate.
Not because the task was joyful. But because the weight was never really in the doing. It was in the anticipating.
Getting Started
It’s a reminder that so much of our emotional experience lives in the story we tell ourselves along the way.
Which brings me to the question I’ve started asking myself more often:
Do I enjoy the life required to reach this goal?
Not the moment of arrival.
The Tuesday mornings. The pace of the days. The person I am while I’m pursuing it.
Because the truth is, you only reach the goal once.
But you live the journey every single day.
This doesn’t mean every day will be exciting. Some parts will always be boring, uncomfortable, or hard. That’s part of building anything meaningful.
But if the entire experience feels draining, misaligned, or like something you’re just enduring until you arrive, it’s worth pausing.
Not to quit immediately. But to ask:
Is this goal creating a life I actually want to live?
Or am I postponing my happiness until some future moment?
I’m still ambitious. I still set goals. I still love building things.
But I’m paying more attention now to the experience of getting there.
Because the quiet truth is this:
The goal will pass.
The life you live while pursuing it, that’s what stays.
So if you’re working toward something right now, the most important question isn’t just, Will I be happy when I get there?
It’s this:
Can I find moments of meaning while I’m on the way?
Because the journey isn’t just the path to your life.
It is your life.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
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When “It’s Only Two” Turns Into a Pile
Photo by Alexander Grey on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
Do you ever fall more behind when you have less to do?
That sounds backward, I know.
Last year I had a lot of health receipts to submit for my HSA card. It felt constant. Doctor bills, prescription receipts, therapy invoices, dentist visits. There was always something waiting to be uploaded.
And because there was always something, I stayed on top of it.
This year? Hardly anything.
Some months I had two receipts. Maybe three.
And every time I looked at them, I thought, Oh, it’s only two. No big deal. I’ll do it later.
Later turned into next month.
Next month turned into, Well now there are four… but that’s still not that many.
By the end of the year, I had a stack.
It all worked out. Nothing catastrophic happened. But I remember sitting there thinking: it would have been a whole lot easier to fix a mistake from last month than to untangle something from six months ago.
And that’s when it hit me.
Sometimes we fall more behind when there’s less.
The “It’s Not Enough to Matter” Trap
We all know that doing tasks in small batches makes things easier. It’s one of the foundations of staying organized. Little by little. Bit by bit. Future you will thank present you.
But there’s a sneaky trap hiding inside that wisdom.
When the task feels small, it doesn’t feel urgent. When it doesn’t feel urgent, it doesn’t feel important. And when it doesn’t feel important… it doesn’t get done.
Two receipts don’t feel like a project.
Two emails don’t feel like inbox overwhelm.
Two toys on the floor don’t feel like clutter.
Until they do.
Why “A Little” Is Sometimes Harder Than “A Lot”
When there’s a lot, we mobilize.
We block time. We roll up our sleeves. We say, “Okay, this needs attention.”
But when there’s just a little, we tell ourselves it can wait.
Ironically, the small pile often requires more discipline than the big one because it requires action without the pressure.
It asks us to care before it’s a problem.
And that’s harder than it sounds.
Getting Started
A Gentle Reframe
This isn’t about perfection.
It’s about recognizing that small doesn’t mean insignificant.
If I could go back and give myself one tiny nudge, it would be this:
Don’t wait for it to feel like a project.
If it takes five minutes, do it while it still takes five minutes.
Because once something becomes a six-month-old mystery, it’s no longer a five-minute task. It’s a mental load. It’s decision fatigue. It’s digging through old emails and second-guessing yourself.
And that’s the real cost.
Where Else Does This Show Up?
I see this in organizing all the time.
A few papers on the counter. A couple returns sitting by the door. One week of not resetting the calendar.
None of it feels urgent.
Until suddenly it does.
The goal isn’t to live in constant hyper-vigilance.
It’s simply to respect the power of small things.
Small things done consistently stay small.
So now I’m curious.
Have you ever fallen more behind when there was less to manage?
Where does the “it’s only two” trap show up in your life?
I’d love to hear.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
Share this post
When the Wrong Blog Goes Out (And the Lesson That Followed)
Photo by Eduardo Ramos on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
Today, you were supposed to receive a blog about birthdays. About why it’s so hard to celebrate ourselves. About why taking even one day, a single day out of 365, can feel strangely uncomfortable.
Instead, you received it a month early.
Not intentionally. Not symbolically. Just… accidentally.
I know many of you noticed.
Because I noticed too, standing in the middle of the The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, NY.
Me and the kids were fully immersed in vacation mode. Hands-on exhibits. Noise. Laughter. That slightly chaotic, joy-filled energy that comes with doing something different on a weekday.
And then my phone started buzzing.
Text message. Another text message. Another.
“Did you mean to send this today?” “Can you recall the blog?” “You sent two blogs.”
My stomach dropped in that very specific way it does when you realize something has already happened, and you cannot undo it.
The blog that was supposed to go out on March 19th had gone out on February 19th.
A full month early.
And there I was. Not at my computer. Not in work mode. Not in a position to fix anything.
Honestly, even if I had been at home, I don’t think it was fixable.
Once it’s out, it’s out.
There is no “undo” button for an email sent to hundreds of people.
So I did the only thing I could do.
I took a deep breath.
And I reminded myself of something I’ve told so many clients over the years:
Mistakes happen when you're taking action.
Not when you’re thinking about starting. Not when you’re planning perfectly. Not when you’re waiting until everything is flawless.
Mistakes happen when you are actually doing the thing.
When you are showing up. When you are writing ahead. When you are scheduling ahead. When you are putting your work into the world.
I have always loved the quote by Theodore Roosevelt, that,"The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena.” The idea that it is far better to be in the arena—messy, visible, imperfect—than to be sitting safely on the sidelines, never making mistakes simply because you never try.
Last month, I was very much in the arena.
And also, very much at the Rochester Children’s Museum, holding sweatshirts and water bottles, and trying to remember where we parked.
There was a moment where I could feel the pull to fix it. To open my laptop. To shift into work mode. To let the mistake take over the day.
But it was a vacation day.
A rare one.
And the truth is, the mistake had already happened. Spending the day worrying about it would not have changed the outcome. It only would have taken me out of the moment I was actually in.
So I made a choice.
I stayed.
We kept playing. We kept exploring. We kept having the day we had planned.
And slowly, the urgency faded.
The mistake did not ruin anything.
In fact, something unexpected happened.
People read the blog.
People replied. People shared kind words. People connected with it.
The very thing I worried about, sending something imperfectly, was also the thing that reminded me why I write in the first place.
Connection doesn’t require perfection.
It just requires showing up.
There is also a practical lesson here, because you know I always come back to the practical side.
Systems are incredibly helpful. Planning ahead is incredibly helpful. Scheduling ahead is incredibly helpful.
And also, systems are run by humans.
Humans who click the wrong date sometimes.
Humans who make mistakes.
Humans who are balancing work and kids and life and everything in between.
Perfection was never the goal.
Consistency was.
Showing up was.
Being in the arena was.
So today, I mostly just want to say thank you.
Thank you for reading. Thank you for reaching out. Thank you for being here.
And, in the spirit of full transparency—if anyone does know how to recall a Squarespace marketing email after it’s been sent, I would genuinely love to know. Not because I expect perfection moving forward. But because having good tools helps support imperfect humans.
Mostly, though, this was a reminder of something deeper.
Mistakes are not evidence that you shouldn’t be doing the thing.
They are evidence that you are.
And I have a feeling this won’t be the last mistake I make.
But it also won’t be the last blog I write.
And I’m grateful you’re here for both
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
Share this post
Why Is It So Hard to Celebrate Ourselves?
Photo by Ivana Cajina on Unsplash.
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
PROJECT OF THE WEEK
I feel like this has been the month of personal blogs… but here we go again.
March 18th is my birthday.
And when I sat down to think about what to write this week, I kept coming back to something that shows up for me every single year:
Why is it so hard to take even one day—a single day out of 365—and fully celebrate yourself?
I know I’m not alone in this.
Every year I tell myself, This year I’ll do something special. Maybe I’ll take the day off. Maybe I’ll plan something just because I want to.
And then… life.
A meeting pops up. A client needs something. A school thing. A deadline.
And suddenly it’s, “It’s just another day.”
You get some lovely Facebook messages. Maybe you go to dinner with family. And you tell yourself, That’s enough. That’s fine.
And it is fine.
But also… why do we talk ourselves out of more?
The Quiet Minimizing
There’s this subtle narrative that sneaks in:
It’s not a big birthday. It’s not a milestone year. It’s not worth making a fuss.
We are so good at minimizing our own moments.
We’ll plan incredible celebrations for our kids. We’ll show up big for our partners. We’ll coordinate thoughtful surprises for friends.
But when it comes to ourselves?
“Oh, it’s just me.”
I had a boss years ago who did a really good job of celebrating her birthday. Every year she would take a big trip with friends. It was intentional. It was joyful. It was clearly important to her.
And I remember thinking quietly, That’s actually really cool. Good for her.
She didn’t apologize for it. She didn’t downplay it. She celebrated being alive for another year.
There was something powerful about that.
Getting Started
If You’re Not Going to Celebrate You… Who Is?
Here’s the part that gets me.
We know tomorrow isn’t guaranteed.
We say that all the time in big, philosophical ways. But what does it look like to live like that’s true?
If tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, then another birthday isn’t guaranteed either.
So why not mark it?
Why not choose something you really want to do? Why not take the day off? Why not gather your people? Why not take the trip? Why not rest?
Why do we need permission to celebrate our own existence?
Sometimes I wonder if it feels indulgent. Or unnecessary. Or self-focused in a way that makes us uncomfortable.
But maybe it’s not indulgent.
Maybe it’s grounding.
Maybe it’s a way of saying: I’m here. This year mattered. And I matter in it.
The Practical Side (Because You Know I Have One)
If I were giving this advice to a client, I’d probably say:
Put it on the calendar now. Block the day. Decide in advance that it’s important.
Because if you don’t plan for it, life will absolutely plan over it.
We know this. I talk about it all the time when it comes to organizing, goals, and priorities.
If something matters, it needs space.
Maybe celebrating yourself deserves space too.
Will I Learn This Lesson?
I’m still figuring this out.
This year was lovely. It was simple. It was meaningful in quiet ways.
But I can already feel that nudge for next year.
What would it look like to really choose something? Not because it’s a milestone. Not because someone else plans it. But because I decide I’m worth celebrating?
We’ll see if I learn this lesson by next March.
But in the meantime, I’m curious—
Is this something you struggle with too? Or are you someone who has figured out how to celebrate yourself well?
If you’re not going to celebrate you… who is?
Maybe this is the year we all get just a little bit better at it.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.
Follow Me
Share this post
Remembering My Mom
Join the Project of the Week Community!
Every Thursday, I share a simple yet powerful action, habit, or project to help you boost your health, happiness, and overall well-being.
If you’ve been enjoying the Project of the Week newsletter, I’d love your help in spreading the word! Invite your friends and family to join us on this journey—just click HERE to sign up.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth!
I wanted to write something a little more personal this week.
March 9th was my mother’s birthday.
Her name was Linda Sahr Weingarten.
My mom died when I was four years old.
It’s something most people in my life know about me. It’s part of my story. And yet, it’s also something our society doesn’t talk about very much. Losing a parent young changes you, but we don’t always have language for how.
I know there are so many people out there who have lost a parent. I know how deeply that kind of loss can shape the direction of your life, the choices you make, the way you show up in the world.
It has absolutely shaped mine.
I don’t know who I would have been if this hadn’t happened. There’s no alternate timeline to compare it to. But I’m pretty sure this experience is part of what made me the independent person I am today.
I’m sure there are downsides. There always are with loss.
But today, I want to focus on the upside.
The Part of Me That Figures Things Out
I have always been the kind of person who figures it out.
If there’s a problem, you find a solution. If someone needs help, you make it happen. If there’s something that has to get done, you just… do it.
There’s very little drama in it. Just forward motion.
I don’t think that’s an accident.
When something foundational shifts that early in your life, you adapt. You learn that tomorrow isn’t guaranteed. That you need to be capable. That you can survive hard things.
Independence became part of my wiring.
And while independence can sometimes look like “I’ve got this” when maybe you don’t, it has also given me resilience. It has given me courage. It has given me the ability to build something from nothing, whether that’s a business, a plan, or a new chapter.
In many ways, Happy Spaces exists because I am someone who believes if something isn’t working, you can create a better way.
That belief didn’t come from nowhere.
Realizing I Wasn’t the Only One
Years ago, I came across the book Motherless Daughters by Hope Edelman.
I remember reading it and thinking,
Oh. This isn’t just me.
The ways I moved through relationships. The ways I handled milestones. The quiet questions that show up when you don’t have your mom to call. So many things I had assumed were uniquely mine were actually common among women who lost their mothers young.
There was something incredibly comforting about that.
In 2022, I went to a Motherless Daughters retreat. I met other women who had lost their moms before they were eighteen. We shared stories. We shared tears. We shared laughter that only makes sense when you’ve lived a similar kind of loss.
And maybe most importantly, I found community in an area of my life that had often felt lonely.
There is something powerful about being understood without having to over-explain.
Remembering Linda
So today, I just want to take a moment to remember my mom.
Linda Sahr Weingarten.
It still feels a little strange sometimes. I have pictures. I have stories. I have her name. But I don’t have memories. There aren’t videos or voice recordings to press play on. There isn’t a sensory snapshot I can return to.
And yet, she is part of me.
I’m grateful she was my mom, even for those four short years.
I’m grateful for the people who have shared stories about her with me.
And I’m grateful for the person I am today. Both because she was my mother… and because this hard, life-altering event helped shape me into someone who can hold complexity. Someone who can build. Someone who can support others through change and grief.
Loss is never something I would have chosen.
But it is something that shaped me.
And today, on her birthday, I choose to honor both the grief and the growth.
If you are someone who has lost a parent, especially young, please know you’re not alone. Even if it sometimes feels that way.
There are more of us out here than we talk about.
And we are finding our way, too.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.