IDEASRoutines are a great way to ensure that you continue along your path of connecting to your vitality. Without structure and a time that is protected from other people and commitments, it's easy to get swept away from your priorities. Routines are not always easy to set in place, because they require protection and commitment. To help you get there, make sure you take small steps, integrate activities into your routine that you love and will look forward, and plan your routine at a time of the day that works for your schedule.
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PRACTICESIdentify your priorities
Determine the most important activities or tasks that you want to include in your routine. These are practices that you want to be cultivating in a consistent and consicous manner. Start small Begin with a few manageable activities or tasks and gradually increase the complexity and duration as you get accustomed to your routine. For instance, you could start with a 2 minute mindfulness routine in the morning, and gradually move up from there. Identify the regularity of the routine Consider whether you want to develop daily routines, weekly routines or monthly routines, or some mix of the three. The regularity will depend on what your goals are. Set specific goals Establish clear objectives for your routine. Determine whether your goals are specific and tied to specific outcomes (ex. complete a certain number of push-ups) or are rather about maintaining the practice (going on a walk every morning). Schedule your routine Determine a regular time of day that works best for you and stick to it as closely as possible. Incorporate enjoyable activities Include activities that you find enjoyable and that help you relax, unwind, and recharge. Be flexible Allow for some flexibility in your routine to accommodate unexpected events or changes in your schedule. Stay consistent Consistency is key to developing a successful routine, so commit to following it regularly. Track your progress Keep track of your progress and adjust your routine as necessary to ensure you are meeting your goals. Stay accountable Share your routine with others and hold yourself accountable for sticking to it. Celebrate your successes Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements along the way to help maintain your motivation and momentum. Continue to adjust As you continue with your routine, continue to adjust, using a stop, start, continue framework. Stop the things you aren't enjoying or aren't bringing you anything, start new things that you are missing, and continue doing the things you are enjoy. If you keep thinking about adding a layer to your routine but aren't doing it, have an honest conversation with yourself about what that practice means to you. Perhaps it can have another place in your life, but not in a regular routine. Focus on your wellbeing Some routines become large and demanding, and can even lead to feelings of guilt when you don't do them. Remember that the focus is on your well-being. If your routine is not feeling enjoyable, take time to reevaluate your objectives. RESOURCESAtomic Habits" by James Clear: This book provides practical strategies for building good habits and breaking bad ones. It emphasizes the importance of small daily actions in creating lasting change and offers a step-by-step guide to creating an effective routine.
"The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg: This book explores the science of habit formation and offers practical advice for creating new habits and breaking old ones. It includes real-life examples of individuals and organizations who have successfully implemented routines to achieve their goals. "Daily Rituals: How Artists Work" by Mason Currey: This book offers a fascinating look into the daily routines of some of history's most successful creatives, from writers and artists to scientists and philosophers. It provides inspiration and insights into how to create a routine that works for you. "The 5 AM Club" by Robin Sharma: This book presents a formula for success that includes waking up early, exercising, and focusing on personal growth before starting the day's work. It offers practical advice and inspiring stories to motivate readers to create their own early morning routine. "Make Time: How to Focus on What Matters Every Day" by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky: This book offers practical advice for creating a daily routine that prioritizes what's most important to you. It includes strategies for managing distractions, staying focused, and finding time for creative pursuits. |