Last Updated on

Productivity

In a Rut? Change Your Routine and Change Your Life

Written by Abigail Clark

It happens to the best of us. We put our heads down, push through each day, let ourselves settle into a certain kind of rut, and before we know it we’re restless and weary and can’t figure out how we got there. It’s important to keep in mind that being uncomfortable with the status quo is okay and is often a good thing.

If you’re feeling this way, making some key routine changes could offer the variety you didn’t even know you were looking for in your life.

Remove Negative Words From Your Vocabulary

As cheesy as it may seem, make a conscious effort to remove negativity from your life. Start with your own vocabulary by not allowing yourself to say words and phrases such as “I wish I could…”, “can’t,” “won’t,” “never,” and “shouldn’t.” Instead, find ways to make yourself say what you’re looking to say with different words. For instance, instead of saying, “I wish I got paid more,” say, “I’m going to work hard to earn a raise.” And then work hard to earn a raise.

This type of positive thinking can train your subconscious to change the way you view things.

Focus on One Goal Each Month

It has been said for a long time that it takes 21 days to form a habit. That exact time frame has been debunked, but it’s still a good amount of time to devote to developing a new habit and become accustomed to embracing it as a part of your everyday life. There are no rules saying you can’t work on more than one goal at a time. The idea is to not commit to more than what is realistic for you.

Feel free to change it up and add in more positive changes as you see fit. Just don’t overdo it – that would undermine the mental wellness and well-being that we’re trying to achieve.

Get up Earlier

In addition to getting a slower, more peaceful start for the day, waking up early has notable health benefits. First, you’ll be more likely to eat a balanced breakfast, which jump starts your metabolism and promotes a healthy weight. It also helps you focus throughout the day. But more importantly, waking up early promotes a healthy mental well-being and a positive outlook.

Give it a try for a month and see how you feel.

Set Fitness Goals

Everyone knows that exercise is good for your health. Most of us have attempted to improve our exercise habits. Some are admittedly more successful than others. So take this opportunity to actually do it. Incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine and see what it does to your body, your attitude, and your general outlook on life.

In no time you’ll be reducing your stress level, boosting your metabolism, and increasing brain function among a host of other positive health perks. It may be helpful to find a place to live that’s conducive to these new goals you’ve set for yourself. Look for something with areas to ride a bike or jog nearby, or an apartment complex that includes an onsite gym or a gym membership. You’re bound to find the right fit once you start looking for apartments for rent by metro areas.

Change Responsibilities at Work

In a Rut? Change Your Routine and Change Your Life
    Our careers are such an important aspect of our lives that if you’re in a rut, making some changes at work could really make a difference. Perhaps you’re bored because you’re not stimulated enough through your work. Look for new opportunities to change things up. Maybe a position in a different department is opening up, or you’re up for a promotion.

    On the other hand, maybe it’s time to make some major changes. Keep your ear to the ground for any changes you can make to switch it up a bit and stay fresh.

    Drink More Water

    We don’t have to tell you that drinking water is good for you – it just is. It promotes cell growth and mental alertness, detoxifies your body, aides in digestion, and just plain tastes good. Make a pact to drink water to promote a healthy state of being and to help make the rest of your goals more achievable.

    The rut you’re feeling is real, and there are very simple things you can do to pull yourself out of it. Give some of these ideas a try, and let us know in the comments how it’s changed things for you.