The benefits of having a routine
10 years ago I started a career as a flight attendant in Paris. The main reason why I choose that path is because I did not want a "boring" life. I refused to have a 9 to 5 job and wanted to travel the world. After years of exhaustion an a very unhealthy lifestyle, I realised that maybe routine is not a bad thing after all! I loved that job but I seriously do not miss waking up at 3am for a 10 hours shift. At that time, I was constantly tired, did not exercise and was partying far too much. It is only when I came in Australia that I discovered the joy of going for early morning walks and being in bed before midnight. Everything changed for the best and creating a routine helped massively to deal with my chronic illness. I have to listen to my body as I know that if do not have enough sleep or do not eat the right food, i am just going to pay for it the day after! So here what I have learned from a "boring lifestyle":
1/Routine reassures me. I do have an anxious personality and feeling like I am in control of my life feel much better than feeling pushed around by other people commitments. I listen to my body and accept I might not have enough energy to do everything I want to do, so I prioritize. For example, I know too well the consequences a late night will have on my body and to know I slept enough will make a difference!
2/I can free my time to do things I love (like writing this blog). Planning some "me" time every week is essential. It is also the best chance for me to get creative!
3/Organizing my meal help me save money and avoid unhealthy take-away. The best way to avoid panic attacks in the evening cause it is late and I do not know what to eat. I can sum up that one in two words: Sunday prep!
4/I am learning to relax. I used to fill-up my life with things I "should" do and felt completely empty. I now prefer to go for a walk or sit at home than going to the mall buying stuff that will not fulfill me long term.
5/Planning my gym sessions ahead give me a better chance to actually end-up going to the gym!
To start a new life routine, start asking yourself what are the things you HAVE TO do everyday and the ones that are not essentials and prioritize your daily tasks. If they are things you do not like to do and are not essential to the smooth-running of your life, just get rid of it! It will give you more time to spend with your loved one or create a new routine and go to the gym!
For more inspiration, check out this TED talk by Chris Sauve about " The habits of highly boring people and take notes!
