A routine is defined as a sequence of actions that you do repeatedly. Think about it, what we do repeatedly moulds us as into who we are as well as the life we end up living. A good routine therefore primes you for success. Having no routine or structure to your days, weeks and months is much more draining mentally, physically and emotionally then having a routine ever would be. For example- you wake up late, rush to get ready for work, miss breakfast and arrive at work overwhelmed and stressed. How does this set you up for the day ahead?
Routines allow you to take advantage of time, willpower and self-discipline by ensuring you establish priorities, keep track of your goals and cut out any procrastination or time wasting.
Having a structured routine reduces stress, increases productivity, improves sleep consistency, builds good habits, creates momentum that carries on through the day and ensures you make time for the things in your life you love and need.
Another important point to consider is the difference between being busy and productive. Have a look at your current schedule, how much time are you wasting in the day? We all have the same 24 hours the difference is how we use it and make the most out of it. If you're travelling an hour into work on the bus is there something you could be doing in that time instead of scrolling social media or staring out the window?
Here are some top tips on how to create a realistic and manageable routine:
- Look at your schedule- when do you start and finish work? Where can you slot prioritised tasks in?
- Look at your habits- Yes you may be busy but how productive are you being? Are you wasting hours of the day scrolling social media or watching television?
- Plan your day- If you plan ahead and complete your tasks at the same time each day this will soon become a habit and take the guesswork out which then reduces stress
- Block out your day- morning, afternoon, evening
- Look at when you want to wake up and go to sleep each day
- Identify when you are most productive
- Allocate meal times
- Allocate exercise time
- Allocate me time
A morning routine a great place to start as it allows you to start your day with intention rather than letting the day run away from you. A morning routine has been proven to increase productivity, reduce stress levels and help you control your day. Everyone's routine is going to be different but here are some things that I believe help set you up for the day.
- Wake up early
- Make your bed
- Recite 5 positive affirmations
- Read your goals
- Write a to-do list of what you want to achieve today
- Express gratitude- what are 3 things you are grateful for today?
- Exercise if possible
- Make a healthy breakfast
Hopefully this has left you considering your daily habits and current schedule. Remember to prioritise your time appropriately and this will rub off in all aspects of your life by giving you more time and energy to reach your goals!
*Disclaimer: Individual results vary based on agreed goals. Click here for details.
