Routines for Life

Routines for life is something that really makes every day more centered, and grounded when other things are hitting the fan. There are so many elements to our lives that are out of control, so being able to have some key aspects to daily life is key in feeling content.

Think about children (some may argue this point), I’ve found with my two babies that structure is KEY! Kids need stability, and that doesn’t change as they grow. Everyone needs some form of stability in our lives. This is an innate component to happiness. Ultimately, as we age, Christ becomes that driving force, and as parents we have that responsibility to our children > structure is important.

With that being said, we operate best when part of our lives are like fuel to a car. We need specific things geared to our individual needs that keeps us fueled up for our day to day lives.

Here’s how to find those things

1 – Take inventory of what happens on days that are “good day”. Really take the time to think about what actually made that day so good. What did you like, what made you excited, what gave you that smile when your head hit the pillow, and what makes you excited to wake up with anticipation of plans for the day ahead.

2 – KNOW YOURSELF! This isn’t an instantaneous thing. It takes times. I LOVE TO READ >> specifically personal development books and personality tests. This is so helpful. I’m pretty dang intuitive, but there are areas of myself that still confuse me and leave me questioning things often. Understanding yourself and how to read people, is an amazing skill to have when it comes to living life to the fullest. This will help you get a grip on things within yourself, and connecting with others >>> this will definitely make your life better, trust me.

3 – Don’t try to fit a round peg in a square hole. Quit committing to things that don’t add value to your life and actually cause stress. NOW, I’m not saying that you shouldn’t get outside your comfort zone. God wants to push us and continually prune us to better >>> but don’t bang your head against a wall, know what I’m saying?

4 – Physically – get movin’! You don’t have to be the next cross fit competitor or weight lifting champ. But exercising is required to live a full life. It could be walking around the block everyday, doing 10 push-ups in the morning >>> the main thing is at least 30 minutes a day of physical movement. Incorporate it >> make it happen. Your job will be to figure out then when and what.

5 – Recharge – we all have to re-charge ourselves. One part of this is SLEEP. We need healthy sleeping habits. Each of us are different in this area. Some people are night owls, stay up late and wake up late, and some are early risers and work in the wee hours of the morning. It doesn’t matter which way you lean towards, but get good sleep and use those “extra hours” for productivity.

If you tend to stay up late >> use the time to do things are setting you up for success. Get your top three done, Bible study, personal development, workout, etc. and if you get up early, do the same >>> use the time for something that fuels your body either mentally or physically.

We all have things that bring energy to us >>> you know what fires you up, make sure to have that in your daily life in some way. If you like to fish, but can’t physically go that day >> research fishing spots to visit >>> see what I mean?

Recharge yourself with what really brings joy.

Here are the 5 things I did to improve my metal health and 5 things I did to improve my physical wellness as well.

You Know, Now What

Knowing what makes you, you and what brings joy, now means establishing a routine.

First, you plan > schedule the things that are non-negotiables >> work, sleep, food, kid’s routine, school, etc.

Second, write your top 3 for the day > what needs to happen TODAY despite whatever else goes down. Stick to it.

Third, recharge > what brings a smile to your face >> reading, drinks with friends, quiet time with the hubs, planning a trip, etc.

Having It All

Life isn’t perfect, but having it all is possible if your mindset is right, basic needs are met, and joy is experienced each day. We don’t have time to waste. Make choices that bring you joy, challenge you, and bring you peace and excitement for the next day. We don’t have to live for the weekends or vacations.

Make everyday count!