Routine isn't the enemy...

It is the foundation for something bigger

Author

Rob Blades
August 28, 2024

Life often presents us with scenarios and puts us in positions which can well… make us question it all.

When you're stuck in a mental rut, it can feel like you're trapped in a cycle of unproductive thoughts and behaviours.

But one of the most effective ways to break free is to establish a routine that gradually shifts your mindset and energy.

Routines create a sense of order and predictability, which can help stabilise your mood and create the mental space needed for change.

By shifting your perspective, routines can become a powerful tool for stability, creativity, and even happiness.

The legendary author Stephen King writes every single day, without fail.

He starts his writing session at the same time each morning and sticks to a word count goal.

Even when facing writer’s block or personal struggles.

King’s commitment to his routine ensures that he stays productive. He credits this daily habit with helping him push through creative hurdles and consistently produce work.

Then there are the Navy Seals, routine is everything.

Starting the day with the simple act of making your bed is part of their daily discipline.

It may seem small, but this practice instills a sense of accomplishment and sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.

Admiral William H. McRaven famously spoke about how this simple routine helped soldiers cope with the intense mental and physical challenges they faced.

In Today’s 4-3-2-1:

  • 4 prompts :1 about your past, 2 about present and now, 1 about your future.

  • 3 questions to spark creativity in a world that doesn’t encourage it.

  • 2 affirmations for the week.

  • 1 tool to help with today’s topic.

“A man who can’t bear to share his habits is a man who needs to quit them.”

Stephen King

4 Journal Prompts:

  1. Reflect on a Past Routine: Think back to a time when a regular routine helped you get through a tough period. What was the routine, and how did it help you regain control or clarity?

    • Example: “I remember when I was going through a stressful job transition, I committed to a nightly journaling routine. Reflecting on my day helped me process my emotions and sleep better.”

  2. Identify Current Mental Blocks: What mental hurdle are you facing right now? How could introducing a small, consistent routine help you start to overcome it?

    • Example: “Lately, I’ve been struggling with motivation to work out. I could start with a simple 10-minute walk each morning to ease back into a fitness routine.”

  3. Examine Existing Routines: Look at your current routines. Are there any that are contributing to your lack of mental health? How could you adjust them to be more supportive of your well-being?

    • Example: “I’ve noticed that I tend to scroll through social media first thing in the morning, which often puts me in a negative headspace. I could replace this habit with 10 minutes of reading or meditation.”

  4. Future Routine Planning: Imagine a future version of yourself who has overcome your current mental hurdle. What routines did you put in place to get there?

    • Example: “In six months, I see myself waking up early and spending the first hour of my day on exercise, meditation, and planning. This routine helped me build the discipline to overcome procrastination.”

3 Questions to Unleash Creativity:

  1. Routine Remix: Take an existing routine and add a creative twist. If you usually walk the same route every day, try exploring a new neighbourhood or listening to an inspiring podcast during your walk.

  2. Daily Sketches or Writing Prompts: Dedicate a few minutes each day to a creative outlet, like sketching or freewriting. This practice can help you break through mental blocks by shifting your focus and letting your mind wander freely.

  3. Mind Mapping: Incorporate mind mapping into your routine to brainstorm ideas or solve problems. This visual method can stimulate creative thinking and help you see connections you might have missed.

2 Affirmations:

“I am capable of creating routines that support my mental and emotional well-being.”

“Every small, positive action I take today contributes to overcoming my mental hurdles.”

1 Tool to help:

Pomodoro Technique: The Pomodoro Technique can help you break tasks into manageable chunks and create a routine of focused work followed by short breaks. This tool is especially helpful for overcoming procrastination and staying mentally sharp.

Stay Unapologetically You, Stay Confident And Be Kind.

Robbo ‘The PVC Chief’ Blades