top of page
  • Ashley VanPutten, LMSW

Boost Your Mood: Create a Daily Routine That Supports Your Mental Health (Part 2 of 2)



In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy routine can seem like a grueling task. However, establishing a daily routine that supports physical, mental, and emotional well-being is a powerful way to cultivate balance and resilience in your life. So let’s dive into Part Two of our two part series on the importance of routines, where we suggest practical strategies for building a routine that supports your goals and enhances your well-being. (If you missed it, Read Part One.)

 


Learning How To Build A Routine That Works For You

 

Identify Your Priorities: Start by listing the areas of your life that you want to focus on. This might include physical health, mental well-being, work or study, relationships, and personal growth. Understanding your priorities will help you structure your routine around what matters most.

 

Set Realistic Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals for each area of your life. Instead of setting vague goals like “get fit,” aim for specifics like “walk 30 minutes daily” or “attend a fitness class twice a week.”

 

Create a Flexible Schedule: Structure is important, but flexibility is equally crucial. Life is unpredictable, and being able to adjust your routine when necessary helps maintain balance and reduces frustration. Design a routine that allows for adjustments without derailing your overall plan.

 

Incorporate Healthy Habits: Ensure that your routine includes habits that promote physical and mental well-being. This could involve regular exercise, balanced meals, adequate hydration, and sufficient sleep. Additionally, include practices that support mental health, such as mindfulness, journaling, or relaxation techniques.

 

Start Small: Introducing too many changes at once can be overwhelming. Begin by incorporating one or two new habits into your routine and gradually build from there. Small, incremental changes are often more sustainable and less intimidating.

 

Track Your Progress: Keep a journal or use an app to monitor your routine and reflect on your progress.Tracking helps you stay motivated and provides insight into what’s working and what might need adjustment.

 


How To Maintain Your Routine

 

Be Patient with Yourself: Building and maintaining a new routine takes time. Be patient with yourself and recognize that it’s normal to encounter challenges along the way. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small.

 

Seek Support: Share your goals with friends, family, or a support group. Having someone to encourage you and hold you accountable can be incredibly motivating.

 

Adjust as Needed: Regularly review and adjust your routine to ensure it continues to meet your needs and goals. As life changes, your routine might need to evolve as well.

 

Practice Self-Compassion: If you find yourself deviating from your routine, don’t be too hard on yourself. Self-compassion is key to maintaining motivation and resilience. Acknowledge setbacks, learn from them, and get back on track.

 

Creating and maintaining a healthy routine is a journey that requires intention, patience, and flexibility. By establishing a routine that aligns with your values and goals, you’re not only enhancing your well-being but also setting yourself up for long-term success. Remember, the path to a balanced life is a series of small, consistent steps. Embrace the process, and enjoy the positive changes that come with a well-crafted routine.


Here’s to your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life!


If you're ready to work with a therapist to get your mental and emotional health in check, reach out to The Therapy Collective of Michigan to inquire about scheduling an appointment!

 

 

 

Comments


bottom of page