This morning I began a new routine. I set my clock a few minutes earlier, hopped out of bed and went running. Now, I am not a runner and the idea of getting up a little earlier (ugh) and running (double ugh) is not my idea of a good time. But I need to do it. After I exercise I always feel invigorated and motivated. I can concentrate better and I accomplish so much more. The actual practice of running frees my mind. Some of my best ideas come during the course of my workout. While running today I was thinking about routines and if they a good thing.
Pros-
1- When you have a routine you don’t have to think about what you are doing. You can focus your mental energies on other thoughts and brainstorming. When I run my mind is free and my thoughts are free. I am not focused on the action (running) but rather on my writing and work. What can I do better, change or eliminate? (Today I outlined this post)
2- Routines enable you to maximize the benefits of repetition. In the Compound Effect, a book by author Darren Hardy, he writes about the growth (compounding) that happens when small actions or steps are repeated consistently over time. Having a solid routine puts you on the path of consistency.
3- To have a routine you must have a plan. Without the plan your schedule would never be the same and would therefore not be a “routine”. The most important step in creating positive change is deciding to change and then making a plan for that change. Last night as I prepared for today I got out (and dusted off) my running shoes, laid out my clothes and filled up my water bottle. Having a plan put me in control of my day and gave me excitement in anticipating the change.
Cons
Disclaimer- I am a big advocate for routine so my cons are more “considerations” when planning your routine not reasons to avoid routines.
1- Remember to keep some variety in your routine to ensure you do not get burned out or injured. A previous routine had me waking up and immediately doing sit-ups. It was a great routine and I was seeing results but it had no variety and after a few months I found my back starting to hurt from the repetition. I needed to change my ab work out – not stop altogether.
2- When we get focused on a routine we may miss or overlook changes that could be improvements. A positive of routine is the ability to focus thoughts on other topics- allow the activity (routine) to run on auto-pilot. But, if we are not careful when we do this we can miss adjustments that would help us. Re-evaluating the routine every so often will keep us fresh, excited and motivated.
3- Finally, do not let the routine rule you. This is your life and you are in charge. Remain flexible in your routine allowing your mind and body to push you down the path of improvement. If you need to change, shake it up or even take a “cheat day” don’t be afraid to adjust your routine.
A lot of my life is becoming routine, my morning wake up, my writing, putting the kids to bed and winding down my day. I have made reviewing the current day and planning the next part of my routine. This keeps me in charge of what I am going to focus on and what I am going to avoid. I think a lot of the positive things that I have been able to accomplish in the past year can be attributed to committing to a positive, well planned routine….. and then going after my dreams.
Question: How about you? Share your thoughts on routine, the good…the bad…. Leave your comments below or by clicking here