The Routine Conundrum

Exploring the need for structure

Note to self!

Ah routines - the comforting rhythm of life that seems to both beckon and baffle me.  Isn’t it amusing how we yearn for a break from the daily grind, only to find ourselves adrift when granted more than a handful days off? Or is just me who feels this way? 

In Wales, children are still off school and many of my friends have decided to stay off work until the 9th January. I can’t fault them. Though most are not self-employed. Maybe I feel more fidgety to get back to work and a routine, more so than my friends do, because I run my own small business and find it really challenging to properly switch off. I know, that’s not a good sign coming from someone who runs a company called EASE. Please bare with, I’m very much a ‘work in progress’ even at 49 years young!

Here’s the thing, I was ready to start the new year on the 30th December, but that’s no surprise for Little Miss Restless here. To me, it’s a curious phenomenon, as I seem to thrive better when I have structure to my day. I find there is a unique comfort in having a roadmap for each day, even if it’s… get up early, walk the ridgebacks, deal with life admin, answer emails, create content, make phone calls, dare to scroll for a few minutes and the list of things ‘to do’ rolls on.  But I like it and more than anything I really like to be useful. Not necessarily busy but useful.

On my walk earlier this morning, I was listening to The Daily Stoic podcast where Ryan Holiday was interviewing Arnold Schwarzenger.  (I never realised Arnie was such a comedian. I couldn’t stop giggling, what a witty, humble gentleman).  The main thread of the podcast interview was about the launch of Arnold’s new book 'Be Useful - Seven Tools For Life’ which sounds right up my street.  Do I need another self help book in my life though?! Have you read it? I do love him as he matures, more because he owns 2 miniature donkeys, a pig and 2 very large dogs. His morning routine starts with letting out the animals, feeding them his homemade nut cookies and walking the pack around his ranch. He says it’s the best start to his day. I couldn’t agree more!

The interview was very thought provoking for me. I don’t know about you, but I’m in need of getting back to business, because I love what I do, and I’m striving for some form of normality and routine. So rather than feel frustrated that others are still in holiday mode, I just need to go and be useful somewhere! What about you?  Are you happy to be back to work with a routine?  Or are you rather enjoying the extra few days off from the hubbub of life?

I’m going to spend the next 10 minutes journaling with these prompts, to try and settle my mind. Oh and I might purchase the audiobook version of Arnie’s latest publication, bizarrely, there is something quite soothing about listening to his lovely Austrian accent.  

Until the next time

Take care and stay safe xx

1. Reflect on the balance between structure and spontaneity in your life.  How can you maintain a routine while also allowing space for creativity and exploration?

2. Consider the concept of “rituals” within your routine - activities that hold special significance or bring a sense of calm.  Describe a ritual you currently have or one you’d like to incorporate in 2024.

3. Write about your relationship with change and the role routines play in navigating transitions or uncertain times.

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