Throwing My Routine Out The Window
As I write this from an extremely uncomfortable airport bench, in the south of France. I can’t help but think about a question that has been raddling around in my brain for the past 3 weeks. What role does routine play in our lives? There is certainly no shortage of discussion regarding the concept of a daily routine. Multiple articles, videos and studies are preaching the importance of routine as part of a ‘healthy’ human lifestyle. But I can’t help but think about its true value in our lives.
Now, I’m not here to agree or disagree with the many people telling you to read every morning, drink at weird times and wake up at insane hours. I am simply throwing some ideas out there that may or may not make sense, but hopefully spark some curiosity.
This whole thought process came to me because I have been travelling for the past few months. No job, no home and not many plans. Naturally, this has somewhat thrown routine out the window. I feel extremely grateful and privileged to be able to call this my current reality. The idea of ripping my routine to pieces with no true plan to rebuild it was extremely refreshing and something I’m sure a lot of people dream of. What surprised me was how often I find myself missing it. No question taking a break from boring daily tasks is just as beautiful as it sounds. However, when all routines disappear, there is a unique hole missing. Anyone who has travelled for a long period or decided to blow up their life just to rebuild it will know what I’m talking about. It has made me question the importance of routine and somewhat excited me about the idea of my future. Taking away something you feel isn’t important only to return to it with a new appreciation for its value. I think the ability to look back on a time in my life that lacked routine will allow me to appreciate life with one that may feel unimportant.
Maybe don’t throw it all away.
Although I let most of my routines fade away over the past few months I did decide to keep some, and I’m glad I did. Typically I am a very routine-based person and have used healthy habits and routines to structure my life over the past few years. I have a list of habits that I try to hit every day as a way of controlling my mental health. When I stray away from those habits I tend to notice a decline in my mood. If I can identify which habit has slipped, I can steer the train back to the tracks and keep myself healthy. This method I have made sure to keep and has no doubt played its role in allowing me to make the most of this incredible experience.
I bring this up not to suggest you do the same but to identify the role routine has in our lives. As I’ve been reflecting on the last few weeks and thinking about this concept. The common thread is that even without consciously trying, I have maintained somewhat of a routine. This has not surprisingly sparked more questions than answers for me. It again just makes me question the role routines play in our lives. Do routines exist because we want them to? Or do we just live in a world that requires them to exist? I’m honestly not too sure. Fun to think about though.
If you are interested or have any thoughts on this topic feel free to reach out at hello@909design.co or DM me on Instagram @909_design
