10 Ways to Get Back Into Routine
Raise your hand if you ever feel so busy that you don’t prioritize yourself.
Me too, sis.
After the holiday season and a busy (but exciting!) start to 2023, I’m making a conscious effort to get back into routine and focus on my habits.
No matter if you’re resetting your habits or starting your routine, I want to reassure you it’s never too late – I’m right there with you! Here are the small habits that I do to get myself back on track with my healthy habits and take steps towards my goals.
I. Movement
Move your body every day (even if it’s a ten minute walk or quick stretch)
I know it might sound counterintuitive, but it’s scientifically proven that exercise gives you energy, as well as a rush of happy chemicals. My daily non-negotiables for movement are my basic stretches and a quick walk – even if it’s just around the block or to the train station, that still counts!
I also aim to do a workout four to five days a week. If for any reason I’m not feeling motivated, I have a mindset trick that I use: I tell myself I’m going to workout for just five or ten minutes, and then after if I really want to stop, I can. But the beautiful thing is, nine times out of ten I find I want to keep going. Oftentimes, the hardest part is simply getting started —but that post-workout rush of endorphins and dopamine is unmatched.
II. Nutrition
Prepare healthy ingredients
I have no time or desire to cook. (Rather…I don’t make the time, lol! Working on that.) I like to meal prep ingredients (chop veggies, wash fruit, make overnight oats) and then put a bunch of these healthy ingredients together to make simple meals like salads, smoothies, and oatmeal bowls. It’s just so much easier for me, and helps me to not buy food out as much – because $15 smoothies add up reallyyy quick!
III. Hydration
Drink at least 2 water bottles per day
We all know that the benefits of drinking more water are endless. Luckily for me, stay hydrated throughout the day is one of the habits that I find easier to stay consistent with. If you need to up your water intake, here is your reminder!
IV. Skincare
Complete a basic skincare routine
I’m keeping my skincare routine simple this year by following a “skinimalism” approach. To not overwhelm my sensitive skin, I’m focusing on the essentials: makeup remover, cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. There’s nothing wrong with an elaborate 10-step routine if that works for you, but focusing on these basics first will build the foundation of a consistent routine.
V. Productivity
Make a daily plan
Do a form of daily planning and prioritizing that works for you. For me, I look at my Google Calendar and then write an overview of my schedule in the Notes app that includes:
Scheduled events, appointments, and meetings
Priorities and important deadlines
To-do items
My workout
Any special self care tasks
This helps me stay focused throughout the day, and it’s so satisfying to check things off as I go!
VI. Get outside
Fresh air breaks
Taking breaks is just as important as being productive! If I find myself tired from starting at the computer screen or in a creative rut, I get outside. Breathing in oxygen from the fresh air and absorbing vitamin d from the sun instantly refreshes me.
VII. Journaling
Reflect at the end of the week
At the end of every week, I sit down, grab my journal and pink fluffy pen, and write. I reflect on the past week, check in with myself and how I’m feeling, and also set some goals for the upcoming week!
VIII. Bedtime
Go to bed at the same time every night (sans electronics)
I want to be the girl who turns on her fairy lights, effortlessly shuts off her phone, and then reads for an hour before going to bed. But usually, I’m scrolling on my phone, read for maybe 15 minutes, and then before I know it it’s time to go to sleep. I seriously need to work on my “no phone in bed” rule, so I’m putting this out here to hold me accountable!
IX. Mindset
Positive affirmations
Let’s check in with our mindset and how we’re treating ourselves. This is something I’m taking much more seriously this year after reading about the impact of self love in the manifestation process. If I’m thinking or saying something negative, I try to gently correct myself with a positive affirmation, and truly feel the emotion of it to uplift myself out of the negative vibration.
X. Clean your space
Declutter and organize
I live in a tiny apartment, so there’s truly no space for clutter. When I need to reset, I like to do a deep clean of my room and also take care of the tasks I often forget about, like washing my makeup brushes, cleaning my yoga mat, and taking clothes to the dry cleaner.
XI. Finances
Get your money right
Things like checking your credit score, analyzing your spending habits, and preparing for taxes are actionable ways to start getting your finances in order. As boring or intimidating as it may sound, I promise it will help you feel more put together!
