From Meh to Motivated

Have you ever considered how impactful daily routines can be? Maybe it doesn’t show up until your daily structure changes.

That’s how it was for me.

After years of thriving in a demanding corporate career, retirement presented me with unexpected challenges. One of the most significant was losing the daily structure I had relied on for so long.

Navigating life transitions like retirement, becoming an empty-nester, or relocating can be daunting. The once-packed days filled with deadlines, meetings, and commutes (or managing kids’ schedules) suddenly transform into blank slates.

When I retired, I found myself in a new chapter without the familiar structure. I was uncertain about how to fill my days or create new routines that would support my cognitive functions, engage my mind, and give purpose and meaning to my life.

Meh.

I had to figure it out or I knew I'd fall into the trap of endlessly scrolling social media (how depressing) or binge-watching Netflix (and I don’t even know how to stream).

Can you relate?

If so, just know we’re in good company.

Research shows that having a routine is beneficial at any time, but it’s especially crucial during periods of change or when life feels uncertain or out of control.?

Like retirement perhaps?

While the freedom of an unstructured day might initially seem like a dream after years of adhering to a strict schedule, the lack of routine can actually heighten feelings of uncertainty and anxiety.

Rachel Goldman, PhD, a psychologist and clinical assistant professor at the NYU School of Medicine, explains it well: “If people don’t have structure and are sitting around with less to focus on, they also probably will find themselves thinking about the stressful situation more, which can lead to additional stress and anxiety.”

I experienced this firsthand. It wasn’t pleasant.

But my mental and overall health improved when I discovered the importance of creating a daily structure. I was able to better manage anxiety and uncertainty, unlock my creativity, start to design a new path, and add new meaning and purpose to my life.

Daily routines have many benefits.

1. Streamlining Cognitive Energy

One major benefit of daily routines is that they help streamline cognitive energy.

Many daily tasks are repetitive and can consume valuable mental resources. With a set routine, you can perform these tasks more efficiently, conserving cognitive energy for more complex and creative endeavors.

You’ll maintain focus and productivity, overcoming the urge to procrastinate and delay things you really want to get done.

2. Freeing Up Creative Potential

Daily routines can also unleash your creative potential. The brain thrives on consistency, and knowing what to expect each day reduces stress and anxiety, creating an ideal environment for generating innovative ideas.

If you’re a creative individual (and most of us are in some way or another), routines provide a sense of stability. Predictability in certain aspects of life reduces anxiety, allowing you to take risks in your creative pursuits.

When the basics are taken care of, you can delve deeper into your work, passion, or projects and explore new and exciting ideas.

In your new chapter, tapping into this creativity is essential.

3. Adding Meaning and Fulfillment

Routines do more than optimize cognitive functions; they also add meaning and fulfillment to your life.

Who doesn't want that?

Engaging in regular activities you enjoy contributes to overall mental well-being, providing grounding, structure, consistency, and stability for you and your relationships.

The concept of “flow,” a state of complete absorption in the present moment, supports the idea that meaningful and engaging activities positively impact mental health.

Activities like sports, games, fine arts, and music can induce a state of flow, allowing full immersion in the task at hand. Regular participation in these activities brings a sense of accomplishment, happiness, and overall life satisfaction.

Transitioning to a new chapter often changes your interactions with colleagues, parents, teachers, customers, and even your family. While you may feel a loss, with the right mindset, you’ll discover the time and mental capacity to form new connections and relationships.

Creating new structure is akin to building a new habit. It takes time and effort.

Don’t know where to start? Grab my free template Stage Your Day to Slay Your Day. It’s my gift to you.