The Importance of Implementing a Routine

In a time when uncertainty has become a new sense of normalcy, it comes at no surprise that what we might be craving is consistency. This year has posed its unforeseen challenges and monumental obstacles, it has also given us a new perspective in how we go about our everyday lives. In addition to becoming sanitation experts, we can now do almost anything virtually. 

Online education is nothing new for Colorado State University Global; the school has been paving the way in the online academic realm for years. But for those of us who complete our education from home—both adults at the university level and kids in K-12 school—as well as adults who now work from home, our sacred areas of study are getting crowded.

Implementing a Routine

Regardless of the variables, the fact is that we all need to develop a routine. Without structure, distractions take hold, our list of priorities becomes totally out of alignment, and time seems to quickly dissipate. Before we know it, school responsibilities have taken a back seat to work, household, and other varying demands.

However, a solid game plan in how you approach your daily obligations only sets you up for success. According to Northwestern Medicine, having a routine can help combat increasing stress levels, lead to more restful sleep, and contribute to improved overall health. Who knew simply implementing a routine not only helps increase productivity levels but also provides health benefits?

And to address hovering doubt—no, developing a routine doesn’t need to be a tortuous endeavor! Rather, try to enjoy the process of personalizing it! Below are a few tips on how to set a routine for yourself: 

Schedule Prep

Similar to the concept of meal prepping at the beginning of each week, go through your upcoming commitments. Prioritize and categorize them. Create categories such as school, work, home, and personal, each in a different color to help your mind compartmentalize them. Further, in each category, write out specific tasks (i.e., class by class, write out each assignment and due date, ect).

Daily To Do List

Every morning, maybe as you sip your coffee, take a few minutes to write out your responsibilities for the day. If you feel overwhelmed by planning a whole week ahead, this route might seem a bit more manageable.

Schedule Blocks of Time

Schedule set time blocks for work, study, and breaks. For example, devote a study block for two hours in the morning followed by a break. After lunch, implement another uninterrupted time block solely dedicated to work assignments. The goal of the time block concept is to power through that one area without distractions as you embody efficiency. 

Sleep and Wake Consistently

Wake up at the same time every day. After a few days of putting this into practice, you will see just how quickly your body adjusts! It will become normal to wake up at the same time every day and you’ll be ready to tackle the day ahead. 

Reward Yourself! 

Checking boxes on a running to-do list can be quite satisfying, but so does taking a break or carving out much needed alone time. Whatever the reward, allow yourself to take pride in all of the missions accomplished.

With an open mind and a little bit of discipline, you can construct the ideal routine for yourself. In doing so you welcome the equilibrium of work-life balance, the opportunity to be even more fruitful in your academic undertakings, and  the ability to more thoroughly enjoy down time. The positive repercussions from implementing a personalized routine are bound to pay off!

Share Your Tips

Leave a comment below and let us know what routines or practices work best for you!