I’ve never been much for jewelry. My drawers used to overflow with forgotten necklaces, mismatched earrings, and bracelets I’d wear once and abandon. But for the last three years, there’s one piece I haven’t taken off: a simple, braided leather bracelet. It’s not flashy or expensive. In fact, most people probably don’t even notice it. Yet, this little band has become a non-negotiable part of my daily life.

It started during a period of intense transition. I was switching careers, moving cities, and honestly, feeling a bit lost in the noise of it all. I bought the bracelet on a whim from a small market stall while traveling. The vendor told me it was handmade and that each braid was unique. I liked the story, so I slipped it on. At first, it was just another accessory. But as the weeks turned into months, it began to mean something more.

This bracelet became my anchor. On days when my new job felt overwhelming or when I missed my old friends, I’d find myself fiddling with the braided leather. It was a tangible reminder to stay grounded. It’s funny how a simple object can hold so much weight. It isn’t about superstition or luck—it’s about consistency. In a world that’s constantly changing, this one thing remains the same.

People sometimes ask me if I ever take it off. The answer is no, not really. It’s survived showers, ocean swims, and even a hiking trip where it got caked in mud. The leather has softened and darkened over time, molding to the shape of my wrist. It’s developed its own patina, its own history. That’s part of the beauty—it carries the marks of my everyday life.

Wearing the same thing every day might sound boring to some, but for me, it’s liberating. It’s one less decision to make in the morning. We’re bombarded with choices from the moment we wake up—what to wear, what to eat, which tasks to prioritize. Removing one tiny variable might seem insignificant, but it creates a small pocket of mental calm. It’s my personal uniform, in a way.

There’s also a sense of identity woven into that braided leather. It’s become a part of my story. When I look at it, I don’t just see a bracelet. I’m reminded of the person I was when I first put it on and the person I’ve become since. It’s witnessed late-night work sessions, quiet mornings with coffee, and everything in between. It’s a silent companion through it all.

I’ve tried explaining this to friends, and some totally get it. They have their own version—a favorite watch, a lucky pair of socks, a necklace they never remove. Others think it’s a little odd. But that’s the thing about personal rituals: they don’t need to make sense to anyone else. They just need to hold meaning for you.

If you’re considering adopting a “one thing” ritual of your own, my advice is to let it happen naturally. Don’t force it. It could be a piece of jewelry, a specific scarf, or even a keychain. The object itself doesn’t matter as much as the intention you attach to it. Let it be something that brings you comfort or reminds you of a value you hold dear.

So, no, I don’t plan on taking off my bracelet anytime soon. It’s more than an accessory now—it’s a touchstone. On chaotic days, it’s a quiet cue to breathe. On good days, it’s a celebratory badge. It’s a small, constant thread running through the tapestry of my life, and honestly, I can’t imagine my wrist without it.