Creating a routine that works for you

Figuring out how to create a daily routine that is tailored to you and sticking to it can take some time. What should you include or not include? It just seems that there's not enough time in the day.

Every routine depends on the individual. Most importantly, you need to figure out what you have to get done and when. But you need to be realistic and honest about your lifestyle and time-management abilities, to create a reasonable work routine that is durable - within your reach -obtainable.

The first thing you will want to do is make a list. Put your plan in writing. Don't worry about organizing the details, you're brainstorming at this stage. You are just simply writing down everything you do each day, and everything you should get done. You may need to go as far as tracking your daily activities with a notebook to capture all the details of your day.

Once you have captured all the details, you will want to begin structuring your day. We are familiar with the saying "the early bird gets the worm" - that only works for some. You will want to think about when you work best. Then, group your tasks into the time of day that makes the most sense for when you will efficiently complete them.

Get as specific as possible. For example, you might want to write a daily morning routine that looks something like this:

• 7:00 a.m.: Wake up, shower, brush teeth
• 7:30: Coffee, Breakfast
• 8:00: Office Time
• 8:30: Leave House
• 9:00: Arrive at first appointment

That's a very detailed daily routine example. But some people might prefer that level of detail—at least until they get the hang of the routine. As for myself, my lifestyle consists of a lot of flexibility. Although the activities might be the same, the times may vary or vice versa.

Therefore, it is good to schedule time for flexibility. Because life can happen at any time, you should plan for some flexible free time within your routine. Scheduling free time into your daily routine will help to keep things flowing smoothly and allow you to still get everything done without feeling pressed for time.

It is now time for a test drive. Once you have created your daily routine, test it out. Ask yourself, did you schedule your tasks at times that make sense? Do you need to make adjustments? Commit - make tweaks to your schedule. Once your tasks are aligned, you should find sticking to your daily routine to be easier than you thought.