Creating Structure & Stability Through Routines: Part 2, How to Set & Create Routines
In my last blog we talked about how creating routines can be healthy for you and in turn, healthy for your brain. However, now you may be thinking, “how do I create those routines?” I know that sometimes thinking about setting up new routines can seem daunting, but with these tips and tricks and it should make it that much easier!
1. Decide what needs to be in your routine.
Prioritizing what is important to you before starting is key! Do you want to get more exercise or more alone time? Then try to add that into your day or week. Just remember, what works for someone else might not work for you. We all have different routines, wants and needs.
Set small goals.
Instead of going after one big goal, break each large goal into smaller goals. While a big goal is exciting to tackle, it is what often leads to failure as we take on too much. If your overall goal is to eat healthier meals, start by changing one thing a day, every day, to build confidence in what you are doing. When you accomplish that, add on one more small goal and keep going!
Layout a plan.
Start with one week at a time and start small – that way you can build on simple accomplishments. To help with accountability I suggest writing it all out on a calendar, almost like an appointment, or even asking others to help you.
Be consistent with time.
If you want to get a daily walk in, attempt it at the same time every day. I know for me completing tasks first thing in the morning before losing motivation allows me to enjoy the rest of the day. So I try to stay consistent with that time.
Be prepared.
When deciding upon a new routine, make sure you have all the pieces before you start. This will make it easier to get started and it makes it harder to get out of it. For example, if a new routine is to do yoga twice a week, make sure to have all the materials like a mat, yoga blocks and yoga videos. It would be hard to start or complete without the basics!
Make it fun!
Getting into a new routine and new goals are not always fun, but there are ways to make it fun. Find a workout buddy, get a good playlist for cleaning and try new cooking classes – anything to help you enjoy your new routine.
Track your progress.
Create a visual calendar that you can cross off each day that you complete the task. Maybe even update a friend weekly on your progress.
Reward yourself.
Remember that it takes around 21 days to build a habit or routine. A way to help build healthy habits is through the reward center in our brain. Creating routines are hard at first and do not seem rewarding because we want to see instant results. That is why we have to create rewards for even the smallest wins. This will help you to continue with the routine. Once you have fallen into a routine on a consistent basis, reward yourself with something big and fun.
Hopefully, these quick tips can help you move forward in creating a routine. Like I said earlier, it takes three weeks to build a habit. So go easy on yourself if you mess up or struggle with setting up and keeping routines. It’s ok! It is a learning experience and takes time.
Sydney Redding, LMSW