Love or hate them routines are everywhere, and we live in a world where everyone either swears by them or insists they don’t do them. The reality is we all have some routines the key is whether we allow ourselves free space as well do discover new things and not get bogged down in having to complete every routine every time!!

Different Routines

Beccy and Lindsey both have very different morning routines. However, when we get into BHVA HQ we both know instantly if the other person’s routine has been interrupted. We arrive a little out of sorts, having to finish processing what we have left behind at home, it takes us longer to focus and can often have a knock-on effect on the rest of our day. For both of us our morning routines are key to ensure we and our families are set and ready for the day. Now, as Mums this is often a juggling act but the routines that we start the day with are also helping to teach our children what needs to be done so they are ready for the day: basic hygiene, fuelling our bodies for the day ahead, having everything we need to step out the door to see what the day will hold. Without our morning routines life becomes harder.

Once at work we have routines that must be kept to, or our business simply would not function. Being organised and making sure everyone in the team understands the routines/process and focus/priority is key to all the must haves getting done each day.

A little guilty pleasure of ours is enjoying the 90-day planning process to set our goals for the next 90 days – what we want to achieve to move our business forwards. However, it is important that the steps required to meet these goals have flexibility. The need to able to change as priorities shift, and even allowed to be parked if we realise that now is not the right time for us.

Routine and Creativity

Believe it or not science has also said that routines are good for creativity. They allow us to set aside time and get in the zone on a regular basis so we can develop creative ideas. For our students setting aside time when they can practice uninterrupted is key, but it’s also important to recognise that if things aren’t working that day, then it’s okay to leave it and pick up another time.

On the flip side, when it comes to the practicing then routine within the practice session is not always a good thing. Our brains like to mix things up when it comes to learning, and a routine may limit that. 

The Pros and Cons of a Routine

THE PROS

1. You’ll be more efficient in setting & achieving goals.

2. You’ll be less stressed, happier & healthier because the basics to help you function each day will be taken care of.

3. You won’t procrastinate as much.

4. You’ll be used to the demands of ‘everyday life’: going to your job, the kids’ bedtime, juggling personal tasks with work.

5. You’ll learn more & become better at what you are doing.

6. Your life will have more structure.

7.  You’ll find your “flow” faster (a state of ultra-focused consciousness).

THE CONS

1. Routines don’t work for everyone; they can add pressure and stress if the routine is too demanding.

2. They won’t immediately solve all your problems.

3. Life is unpredictable & can get in the way of planned routines – you must allow yourself to be flexible.

4. You’ll risk boredom & monotony if you don’t allow free time or flexibility.

5. You’ll stop growing (if you don’t add new goals & objectives).

6. Not all routines are good for you.

7. Routines are hard work & require total dedication.

So do we love or hate routine at BHVA?

We love them for essential life and how they can help us be more productive.

We hate the added pressure they can bring if every minute is over planned and there is no flexibility.

We think the best outcome is to have a routine that’s built around certain goals and blocks out free time in the day, but be flexible and allow routines to change and evolve. It’s your routine so you own it. Give yourself ownership of it, which means if you can adapt it one day or even park it completely if needed. Its okay to take a day off – you deserve it!!

Routine + Flexibility = Ideal!