Introduction:
How many of you have a routine in the morning? How many of you have a routine that differs on the weekend? For those of you that have gone through a major life transition such as the loss of a loved one, job, even family pet, how did your routine change?
Addressing the Neon Green Singing Elephant in the Room:
Recently, there have been massive layoffs happening in the technology industry, more so than people realize. I will be addressing that in a different blog. This blog is focusing on what you can do in your personal life when you find yourself going through your own life transition and could be applicable to a career transition.
The Influence of Routine on Well-being:
Studies have shown it takes the same amount of time to break a habit as it does to form one, but what if the discipline or desire are no longer there? For example, when we are working, we know the routine. The days we need to work we have to get up, get dressed and go to work or we do not get paid. This provide a sense of order and predictability, contributing to mental and emotional well-being. However, when faced with a major life transition, the discipline to maintain these routines may waver.
Preventing the Slip into Bad Habits:
You may take a few days to catch up on some sleep, sort through your thoughts, feelings and process the recent transition and that’s okay, in fact, it’s encouraged! After you’ve taken some time, there are some things you can do that may prevent you from slowly slipping into bad habits and potentially even depression.
1. Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule:
Go to bed around the same time as you usually would to regulate your body's internal clock. Majority of people stay up later on weekends, even letting children do the same. It’s okay just don’t slip into the habit of doing it every night. Just imagine what would happen if you let your children do that!
2. Embrace Natural Light:
Resist the urge to use blackout curtains and let natural light into your living space. I haven’t encountered too many people that enjoy daylight savings time. That extra hour can have major impacts on you both mentally and physically. So why would you want to subject yourself to more torture?
If you live in an area with limited daylight, consider investing in light lamps or light alarm clocks to help lighten up your life.
3. Preserve Morning Rituals:
Keep your morning routine, including activities like breakfast, showering, brushing your teeth, and meditation. This may seem pretty obvious, but, you change your sleep schedule you’d be amazed at how many “normal” things we decided to skip.
4. Dress for Success:
Get dressed for the day, even if your plans are less structured. It can positively impact your mindset.
Remember when people use to meet in person? I know to some younger people this seems like an absurd concept but it’s true! People used to actually meet in lounges, grocery stores, the gym or even while out to lunch with friends.
5. Prioritize Physical Activity:
Incorporate exercise into your routine, even if it's just a short walk around the block. Physical activity can boost mood and energy levels. I don’t need to tell you the research that’s been done on physical activity and your brain so just get out there and move!
6. Get in tune with Mother Nature:
Spend time outdoors. There’s nothing better than getting a natural dose of vitamin D. If you’re looking to get a head start on your summer tan, consider it a bonus!
7. Maintain or Start New Healthy Eating Habits:
Keep consistent eating habits or take this opportunity to make positive changes to your diet and even your pocketbook.
Take this time as an opportunity to learn how to cook a new dish, visit a local farmers market, incorporate meatless Mondays or a lower carb Taco Tuesday.
8. Nurture Social Connections:
Stay connected with friends and family. Social relationships provide support during challenging times. This doesn’t have to cost a lot of money but the spiritual impact it can have is priceless.
9. Set Daily Goals:
Hold yourself accountable by setting achievable goals for the day. Accomplishing small tasks can boost confidence. If you don’t get to everything on the list or the day it’s okay.
Take time at the end of the day to do a brain dump. Decide what you want to accomplish the following day.
10. Give yourself grace:
Progress over perfection, not every day will be perfect and that’s okay.
Conclusion:
In times of major transitions, maintaining a sense of routine and well being can be powerful tools. The suggestions listed above are not a replacement for professional advice, but they offer practical strategies to navigate these challenging periods. Remember, showing up for yourself every day, in whatever form that takes, is a crucial step towards resilience and healing.
© 2024 by JCNewBeginnings
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