Creating a routine is easy. But sticking to it? That’s where things get tricky. You know the deal: you start strong only to find yourself back at square one a week later. Been there. But good news: I’m here to help you not just create a routine, but actually make it stick. So let’s get into the steps that will turn you into a routine expert.
1. Start with your ‘why’
Have you ever heard the saying, “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there”? Well, it applies to routines too. Before you start mapping out your perfect day, take a moment to think about why you want this routine in the first place. Is it to be more productive? To have more time for yourself? To reduce stress? Having a clear ‘why’ will keep you motivated when things get tough.
2. Keep it simple
I know, I know. You’re excited and want to overhaul your entire life in one go. But trust me, that’s a recipe for burnout. Start small. Pick one or two habits you want to incorporate into your routine. It could be as simple as making your bed every morning or reading for 15 minutes before bed. Remember, we’re aiming for progress, not perfection.
3. Know your chronotype
Are you a night owl or an early bird? Understanding your natural energy rhythms can help you create a routine that works with your body, not against it. If you’re not a morning person, don’t force yourself to wake up at 5 AM just because some CEO swears by it. Design your routine around when you’re naturally most alert and productive.
4. Use habit stacking
This is a neat little trick. Instead of trying to remember a bunch of new habits, tie them to things you already do. For example, if you want to start flossing regularly, do it right after you brush your teeth. By piggybacking on existing habits, you’re more likely to stick to new ones.
5. Make it enjoyable
Who says routines have to be boring? Find ways to make your new habits fun! If you’re trying to exercise more, pick an activity you actually enjoy. Dance, swim, basketball—whatever floats your boat. The more you look forward to something, the more likely you are to do it.
6. Set realistic expectations
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a perfect routine. Be patient with yourself, it takes time for new habits to stick! Some say 21 days, others say 66 days. The truth is, it varies from person to person. Don’t beat yourself up if you slip up now and then. Just get back on track the next day.
7. Use visual cues
Out of sight, out of mind, right? Well, let’s flip that on its head. Use visual reminders to keep your routine front and center. This could be sticky notes on your mirror, a habit tracker on your fridge, or reminders on your phone. Seeing these cues regularly will help keep you on track.
8. Plan for obstacles
Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. Instead of letting these derail you, plan for them. What will you do if you oversleep? How will you stick to your exercise routine when traveling? Having a plan B (and even a plan C, D, and E) will help you stay consistent no matter what.
9. Track your progress
There’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing how far you’ve come. Use a habit tracker, journal, or app to log your progress. On days when you’re feeling unmotivated, looking back at how consistent you’ve been can give you the boost you need to keep going.
10. Reward yourself
Who doesn’t love a good reward? Set up a system to celebrate your wins, big and small. Did you stick to your routine for a week? Treat yourself to your favorite dessert. Hit a month? Maybe it’s time for that gadget you’ve been eyeing. Just make sure your rewards don’t contradict your goals (i.e., don’t reward a healthy eating routine with a junk food binge).
11. Create a conducive environment
According to Verywell Mind, your environment plays a huge role in your behavior. So, if you want to eat healthier, keep your fridge stocked with nutritious foods. If you’re trying to read more, keep books in easily accessible places around your home. By setting up your environment for success, you’re making it easier to stick to your routine.
12. Use the “two-minute rule”
This one’s a game-changer. If a task takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. Making your bed, washing that coffee mug, sending that quick email—just get it done right away. This prevents small tasks from piling up and helps maintain momentum in your routine.
13. Find an accountability partner
Everything’s better with a friend, including sticking to a routine. Find someone with similar goals and check in with each other regularly. You’re less likely to skip that morning jog if you know your buddy is waiting for you at the park. Plus, a little friendly competition never hurt anyone!
14. Be flexible
While consistency is key, being too rigid can backfire. Life happens, and sometimes your routine will need to adapt. Maybe you have an early meeting and can’t hit the gym in the morning. Instead of skipping it entirely, be flexible enough to move it to the evening. Again, progress…not perfection.
15. Embrace the power of rest
In our hustle culture, it’s easy to forget the importance of rest. But here’s the thing: rest isn’t just crucial for your well-being, it’s essential for maintaining a routine long-term. Schedule downtime, and treat it as non-negotiable. You’ll find that you’re more energized and motivated to stick to your routine when you’re well-rested.
16. Practice self-compassion
Let’s be real – you’re going to have days where you fall off the wagon. It happens to everyone. The key is how you respond. Instead of beating yourself up, practice self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness you’d show a friend. Acknowledge the slip-up, figure out what led to it, and then get back on track.
17. Use the “don’t break the chain” method
This method, popularized by Jerry Seinfeld, involves marking an X on a calendar for each day you stick to your routine. As the chain of X’s grows, you’ll be more motivated to keep it going. It’s a simple but powerful visual representation of your consistency.
