Routines are best when they are simple. Creating any habit takes time, but it's easier to stick to when it feels good.
Think about your current daily routines. Even if you think you don't actively have one, you most likely perform daily tasks and rituals, as routines are just a string of repeated habits. Whether or not you're actively choosing these routines, they are there.
You might be someone who skips breakfast and always feels like you're on the go, or you might make time for breakfast no matter what is happening around you. We create our habits out of what is important to our values.
Routines will likely shift daily based on how you feel, but there will be a similar pattern to how you go about your day. Taking note of these patterns and becoming aware will help you guide your kids or teens through their routines. Consciously creating routines stemming from habits that feel good will make your day much better once we understand this concept within ourselves. We cannot teach what we don't already do, so looking back at your routines and seeing what you'd like to shift is important.
Remember that these habits, thoughts and routines are constantly shifting. Young people will often try many different ways until they find something that suits them. Here are some tips for getting started:
Tips for creating routines that feel good:
Take note of the current routine and habits; what feels good, and what would you change?
What are some of the small changes that you would make now that would make a big difference?
Use a board to check off daily tasks until you form the habit.
Example:
I skip breakfast when I am in a hurry and don't feel good for the rest of the morning. I find it hard to concentrate and often get easily irritated by others. When I wake up late, I feel rushed to pack my school bag, and because I need my books for the day, I skip breakfast because I can eat at lunch. I then feel quite stressed, making me feel bad throughout the morning.
Take note of the current routine and habits; what feels good, and what would you change? Nothing feels good about the morning that I am rushing. I would change my routine to create time to always to eat breakfast.
What are some of the small changes that you would make now that would make a big difference? I can start reading, journalling, or creating winding down time before bed so that I feel rested when I wake up. This will allow me to wake up on time as my alarm goes off, find some quiet time in the morning to eat breakfast, pack my bag, and set up my day better.
Small changes can have ripple effects in our lives. Pausing and thinking about where we can create change will help young people develop habits and skills that last a lifetime. Trial and error is always needed to find a routine that works for that moment in time. One that supports who they are will improve their moods, help them learn at school, and build good relationships with those around them.
Download our app to learn more. We have great content for young people on creating routines, winding down, and becoming the best versions of themselves.
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