Introduction
The last 18 months have been full of uncertainty and loss, thanks to the pandemic. I can safely say, we all felt out of balance. However, we don’t need a pandemic to feel that way. Any change to our life, creates a change to our routine and that makes us feel out of control and unbalanced. And we need to feel in control and balanced to feel safe. So how do we do that? One very important way is by adding structure to our day. When we add structure to our day, we don’t have to constantly make a decision, in turn preventing “decision fatigue.” I think we are all too familiar with that. So here are a few ways to get your started.
7 ways of adding structure to your day
1. Create a morning routine. Possibly one that is calm. Don’t give yourself lots to do right when you wake up. It’s important to ease into your day. When you open your eyes -take a few deep breaths, remember what you’re grateful for and set an intention for the day. Spend quality time with family. The day gets busy and starting it off with a loved one over breakfast or a brisk walk will put you in a better mood.
2. Have a nice warm drink and sit down to write down your thoughts. I love this one. Morning pages or brain dump are both great techniques to let go of your thoughts, clear your head and add space for what you actually need.
3. Plan your day. Write down the top three things you need to do today. Write down the top three things you want to do today. Focus on the ones you need to do first. Block off some time in your calendar and treat that like a meeting with yourself.
4. Take a break every hour for 5 minutes. Ideally, don’t spend it online. Make tea, stretch, play loud music and dance or talk to a family member.
5. Reward yourself after every major completed task. So that you can stay motivated and well, just feel good about yourself.
6. Have meals at the same time everyday. Moms will know how important that is for kids, well it’s just as important for adults. This creates a sense of certainty and we all need that right now.
7. Go to bed at the same time everyday. Get up at the same time. Again, the idea is to create a routine and add structure.
Now that you have some tips on structuring your day – what will you try or are you already doing something that’s working for you? Would love to hear your thoughts.
“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”
– Will Durant
#prouctivity #planning #balance