A habit is a behavior that is done every day until it becomes nearly automatic and you’re able to do it without really thinking about it. A routine is a string of several actions that are always done in the same order. If you can build your good habits into a routine, you will essentially have a string of good habits or a “good routine.” These carefully planned out routines will be beneficial because you’ve specifically tailored them to yield positive results in your life.
Think about the routines you already have, for example, your morning routine. Most people’s morning routines consist of waking up to an alarm clock, showering, drinking coffee, getting ready for work and so on. You’ve put all of these actions together to form a routine that is done the same way each day. Routines are pre-planned out, so you don’t have to make a new plan every day. This helps you get all of the actions done without thinking about what to do next.
To turn your habits into a routine, first you should think about which habits you want to put together. Next you will need a plan of action. It always helps to write down your plans so that you can refer back to them later and to assist in comprehension. Your plan should consist of the order in which the actions make the most sense and what time of day you will do the routine. Your routine will be several habits that you already have, put together in a certain order and done that way every day until it essentially becomes a lifestyle.
Forming your “good routine” will take some time, so don’t give up too early. It’s said that a new habit takes 3 weeks to form. After a habit is formed, if you continue to perform the behavior for 90 more days, it is said to have become a lifestyle. This is called the 21/90 rule – 21 initial days to form the habit and another 90 to make it stick so well that it becomes your lifestyle. Our routines make us who we are, or our lifestyle. So, set yourself up with planned out routines that make a positive impact on your life. You will be able to accomplish your goals and live a more positive, productive and happier life.
