Our routines are the sets of actions that done over time add structure to our days and weeks. There are endless possibilities for routines:
Morning Routines. Exercise Routines. eMail Routines. Cleaning Routines. Exercise Routines.
And the list could go on.
Having routines goes a long way to creating rhythm in your life and keeping stress levels down. The routine provides the structure.
Let’s use a morning routine as an example. The general routine is wake up, brush teeth, shower, get dressed, prepare hair and makeup, make coffee, eat breakfast. A great structure to get the day going.
Yet, two dreaded decisions within this routine can be a point of frustration before the day even starts:
What will I wear? What will I eat for breakfast?
You may not personally struggle with these two areas, but you get the idea of how elements within a routine can disrupt your day. This is where boundaries come in.
My Perspective – Experiment with Boundaries
Once a routine is in place, boundaries can be defined to reduce the number of choices you need to make while executing your routine.
The approach will be different for everyone. Experimenting will allow you to discover the boundaries that work best for you.
Going back to the morning routine, here are examples of boundaries for clothing and breakfast:
Wardrobe – There are a range of options here. You could develop a “personal uniform” that you wear each day (jeans and tunic). You could leverage a mix and match capsule wardrobe with less choice. Selecting your outfit during your bedtime routine the night before is yet another option.
Breakfast – Decide on a meal you eat every weekday with more options on the weekend. Plan a meal for each day of the week. Another alternative might be something at home 3 days a week and picking up a muffin or yogurt parfait the other 2 days.
There are no “right” solutions to the boundaries. Experimentation will help you discover what works best for your lifestyle.
Your Turn
Do you have routines throughout your day?
Have you ever considered setting boundaries within your routines? Do you think this would help you? What is one area of a routine that you want to do some experimentation?