One thing I learnt in 2020 was how important routine is for my wellbeing. And I’m pretty sure I’m not alone in that. Having some kind of structure to your day as a lot of benefits, and helps you have some stability in life.
2021 hasn’t brought the same fresh start that a new year usually brings, and as we enter the third lockdown, with no end date, it can feel scary. Creating a routine isn’t here to force you to be productive, but it’s to help you get out of bed in the morning, find some kind of purpose and hopefully help your mental wellbeing.
Finding routine has helped me a lot in my life. From prolonged periods of chronic illness flare ups to surgery recovery to managing my anxiety and depression.
Take it from me, my default mode is to have a cup of tea, my big blanket and watch tv and films. But finding routines, and creating consistency in the habits which make me feel good has helped my mental health so much
Why routines are important
Routines can benefit many areas of your life. It lowers your stress, helps you feel more productive, helps build positive habits, reduces depression and anxiety and can help give a sense of purpose.
Having a routine also helps you save time, so you can do more of the things which you love.
5 steps to find a routine which works for you
What makes you feel good?
What activities make you feel good? What helps you feel centred and energised? Calm and rested?
Some examples; reading, meditation, exercise/walk, eating nourishing foods, journalling
What are your non-negotiables?
So here, you want to pick maybe 3 things which are your non-negotiable. You’ll do these every day – no questions asked. These are the staples, the back bone of your routine.
What is your why?
You only stick to things when there’s motive behind it. If you’re doing something because you think you should do it, or because your friends are doing it, but you have no real drive then you won’t keep it up.
Ask yourself WHY? Why do you want that to be part of your daily routine, why is that your non negotiable. Then, if you feel yourself wobbling, or wanting to give up, you can go back to that why. It will help centre you and keep you going.
Don’t make changes all at once
Huge changes all at once can knock us. The unknown is scary and our subconscious can start to self-sabotage. Make small changes, see how it feels, and don’t be scared to make changes and be flexible.
Map it out
Something which helps me massively when creating routines is making it out. I actually write it all down, try it out and then make any tweaks.
One thing I’ve struggled with for a few years is creating a morning routine which works for me. My evening routine comes naturally but morning ones, not so much. This year I carved out time to really explore what I want my mornings to look and feel like, and a week in I already feel the benefit.
Remember, things take time. It takes 30 days to create a habit so stick with it. Some days are harder than others, but be flexible.
Once thing I’ve learnt from living with chronic illnesses is flexibility is key. If you wake up one day and don’t feel well, or are in pain or a flare up – listen to your body. Be flexible, make the changes that are necessary. And then try again tomorrow.
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