When we think of routines, we generally don't have good thoughts about them as an adult. They seem boring and only reserved for people who aren't spontaneous. But routines are not just for creating structure for children, they are for adults too - psst…you need structure too, my friend.

Routines can help manage the stress of day-to-day life and help you stick to those healthy habits you want to start and kick the ones you want to lose.

Checks your habits

Creating a routine is all about habits and what we do regularly. The first step to creating a routine is to figure out what you do daily aka our habits. Then, make a list of all the things you need to get done daily (eating, getting ready for work, getting the kids ready for school, spending time with your significant other and loved ones, etc). Write down the things you do well with these tasks and ways you want to improve.

Adjust your daily routine

Change usually doesn’t happen overnight so make small consistent changes to get you where you want to go. Here are a few ideas to get started:

• Wake up 30 minutes earlier than normal

  • Spend 15 minutes doing self-care. This can be anything from sitting in silence and journaling to having a cup of coffee while reading the paper.

  • Spend 15 minutes eating a healthy breakfast.

• Go to bed 30 minutes earlier than normal

• Make it easy

  • Exercise - pull out workout clothes and pack gym bags the night before to help prepare for your next gym session

  • Start a meal plan - Prepare meals on your least busy day of the week and know your cooking and eating styles.

    • create a list of your favorite foods and meals and rotate the list. Add new recipes based on the list you’ve made and refine as you go.

For every habit you want to break or start, begin slowly. Start with a goal each week then add/remove a habit throughout the week. Don't fret if you miss a day or completely forget, you can always create a fresh start wherever you are on your journey. Remember to be flexible with yourself and anyone who the new routine affects.