BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM

Building a daily routine is about more than just getting things done; it’s also about boosting your general health. Routines can help you manage stress, get better sleep, and live a healthier lifestyle. Or, as Lisa Jeffs, a life coach based in Miami says, “Routines make things in your life so much easier, allowing you to move through your day with much more ease.” Routines can even give you the mental space you need to tackle more difficult tasks, such as strategic thinking or sorting issues out with relatives.

However, after a summer of relaxed schedules, vacations, and time off, getting back into a routine can be tough. Don’t worry, getting on track is easier than you think. Here are six simple suggestions to help you restructure your routine for the fall and beyond.

1. Keep it simple

A typical mistake people make is attempting to achieve too much, too quickly. Whether you’re starting a new fitness plan or restructuring your entire week, do it slowly. Jeffs recommends working on one habit at a time. 

“I know it can be very appealing, especially for high achievers, to want to overhaul their entire life,” she says. “However, one routine at a time allows you to master that routine. Allow it to become a habit, because once it’s a habit, it becomes so much easier.”

By simplifying your approach and gradually incorporating new habits, you’re more likely to stick with them in the long run.

2. Give yourself reminders

Before a habit becomes second nature, it’s easy to forget about it completely. Help yourself by creating reminders. These can take many forms, such as preparing the ingredients for a healthy breakfast before going to bed the night before, putting sticky notes on your bathroom mirror, or using your phone’s reminder app.

The goal is to discover a system that suits you. These small reminders will help you stay on track, especially in the early stages of developing new habits.

3. Lower the barriers

Another benefit of setting reminders is that it may help you complete your chores more efficiently. You’re less likely to skip your routine if you make it easier to start.

“You want to make sure that you understand your own energy levels and play into those energy levels,” Jeffs explains.” “If you are someone who wakes up in a groggy state, you want to make sure everything is laid out the night before.”

For example, if you intend to run in the morning, set out your training gear before going to bed. This little preparation might help you stay on track with your goals.

4. Be flexible and patient

Give yourself some grace if you make a mistake or miss a day. According to a 2021 study, a new habit takes approximately 59 days to become second nature. It’s unrealistic to expect perfection quickly, especially following a summer break.

“Be kind to yourself,” Jeffs advises. “Habits take time, and there will be days where you might not feel like following through. The important thing is to stay patient and not give up.”

Of course, you should hold yourself accountable, but don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a day once in a while.

5. Reward yourself

Positive reinforcement is very effective in helping you stay in a new routine. Jeffs advocates creating a reward system to keep you motivated.

“What is something that you are going to be motivated by to continue this routine?” she’s asking. “Is it going to be purchasing something? Is it going to be a night out somewhere? Is it going to be an outfit? Make sure that your reward is something you actually want and desire.”

Celebrating your tiny accomplishments will give you the motivation to keep going.

6. Do not let the routine slip again

Once you’ve reestablished your pattern, keep to it regardless of the season. Jeffs cautions against abandoning your routine during holidays or vacations since this might result in a tiresome cycle of starting and stopping.

“If you need to change it, I recommend modifying the routine to fit into your holiday or a new season,” she says. “But don’t cut it out completely. Consistency is key to getting the results you want.”

Maintaining even a modified version of your regimen will help you stay on track and prevent you from slipping into old habits.

Small steps lead to big changes

Rebuilding your routine after summer does not have to be difficult. Starting small, being patient, and celebrating yourself along the way will help you transition back to a productive and healthy lifestyle. And, as Jeffs says, “Routines make life easier”—so take it one step at a time and reap the rewards of a more structured and enjoyable day.