A Case of Stuck-In-A-Rut-Itis
It’s easy in life to get used to our routine.
We get up, have our coffee, go to work, make dinner, hopefully connect with our family (or friend family), go to bed and do it all again the next day.
We crave comfort. We like knowing. And, there’s something really beautiful about a regular routine. In fact, I’m a fan of routine and structure (with a dose of flexibility within that structure). Having all of that in place allows me to feel more free.
Until… It. Doesn’t.
Routines are only a valuable tool when we are conscious about them. When we are actively choosing activities that support our lives and vision. That support us in feeling how we want to feel.
Too often though, we become unconscious about routines. We ‘fall asleep’ and stop asking if such and such activity is fueling us or not.
This leads to stuck-in-a-rut-itis.
And, stuck-in-a-rut-itis sucks. It keeps us going through the motions, but NOT REALLY LIVING. Not experiencing pleasure, joy, freedom, love, and so much more.
When it takes hold it’s like we are a background player in our own movie.
So, how do we shift to the leading role? The one with a voice who is empowered and confident?
I think it starts with a healthy self-care routine. Self-care is simply regularly practicing actions that demonstrate care for you – on all levels, physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.
Self-care includes things like exercise, eating more greens, taking naps, journaling, reading uplifting material, saying no, saying yes, hot bubble baths, dancing, painting, playing music, praying, meditating, laughing, drinking water. The list is unlimited.
What matters is that the activities you choose make a meaningful, positive impact in your life. And, the result of implementing this regular plan is YOU feeling good.
This happens because you are demonstrating (to yourself) that you have value. That you matter.
Think about it. Things we value in the world we take care of. If you are a parent, (including fur-babies) you do things to take care of your child (pet). If you have a car, you take it in for service. If you have a computer, you buy a warranty for it.
Why? Because you value it.
My question for you today is: Are you valuing yourself?
No matter your answer, I invite you to explore the following questions:
1. How often do you feel present and fully alive in your life? At work? With your family? Friends? With yourself?
2. What is your current self-care routine? What activities are included within it?
Note: There is no right or wrong. You are just taking stock. Noticing what’s working and not working. In that, there is no room for judgment. Shoulds are not accepted here.
3. Of those activities which really fill you up & excite you and which are kind of lack-luster?
4. Is this an opportunity for you to upgrade your routine? Is there something you want to let go of or replace with something new?
This week is all about exploration. Give yourself space and time to fully investigate what’s working and what isn’t. You don’t have to do anything about it yet. You are simply observing.
Next week I’m going to give you some next steps – including my new favorite tool for integrating a new habit. It involves markers so you know I’m super pumped about that!
For now, in the comments below I’d love to hear from you. What are some of your answers from above? What insights have you gained? What new knowledge have you uncovered about yourself?
I’m looking forward to seeing what you discover.
With loving,
Amber