By now you have begun to think about how your roles
are impacting your life, as well as ways to make adjustments if needed. I want
to continue our discussion and move on to routines now.
Dictionary.com defines the word routine as “commonplace tasks, chores, or duties as must be done regularly or at specified intervals; typical or every day activity”. While I feel that this definition is a little sterile, it does stress how routines can be perceived as rigid, inflexible instructions for our daily lives.
I challenge you to think about your life. Are you one that functions more efficiently when your routine is written in pen? Meaning your life runs smoother when there is structure and consistency? Or are you on the opposite end of the spectrum and just fly by the seat of your pants? I personally find that especially now that I have a child, I function best when I have a schedule written in pencil. Having a plan of action helps to guide my day and increase my productivity, however having a child has taught me to be flexible.
This can be applied to all of the contexts within your life. For example I find that when I am more structured and prepared when it comes to meal planning, I am better able to stick to a healthy diet. I take the time on Sunday to go grocery shopping and stock my fridge with healthy foods and snacks. Within my work life, the more organized I am, the better I am able to handle challenges that pop up. The same also holds true on the home front as well. When I take the time to keep up on housework, I tend to be less stressed. However if I take a couple of days off from straightening up and laundry, I become overwhelmed with the catch-up game.
What role do routines play in your life? Would your life be less stressful if you followed a routine, or abandoned one?
Dictionary.com defines the word routine as “commonplace tasks, chores, or duties as must be done regularly or at specified intervals; typical or every day activity”. While I feel that this definition is a little sterile, it does stress how routines can be perceived as rigid, inflexible instructions for our daily lives.
I challenge you to think about your life. Are you one that functions more efficiently when your routine is written in pen? Meaning your life runs smoother when there is structure and consistency? Or are you on the opposite end of the spectrum and just fly by the seat of your pants? I personally find that especially now that I have a child, I function best when I have a schedule written in pencil. Having a plan of action helps to guide my day and increase my productivity, however having a child has taught me to be flexible.
This can be applied to all of the contexts within your life. For example I find that when I am more structured and prepared when it comes to meal planning, I am better able to stick to a healthy diet. I take the time on Sunday to go grocery shopping and stock my fridge with healthy foods and snacks. Within my work life, the more organized I am, the better I am able to handle challenges that pop up. The same also holds true on the home front as well. When I take the time to keep up on housework, I tend to be less stressed. However if I take a couple of days off from straightening up and laundry, I become overwhelmed with the catch-up game.
What role do routines play in your life? Would your life be less stressful if you followed a routine, or abandoned one?
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