Change—no matter how positive—can be challenging, and it’s okay to feel out of sorts.

The first step in building a new routine is acknowledging the change you’ve experienced. This might seem silly, but it’s important to recognize how the shift has impacted your daily life. Seriously, take your time reflecting and be kind to yourself!

Creating a routine after a major life change is not just about getting back on track—it’s about creating a new track that aligns with who you are now. It’s an opportunity to design a life that supports your growth, happiness, and well-being.

5 Steps to Create a New Routine After a Major Life Change

1. Identify Your Priorities

Every routine is built around priorities. In this new phase of life, what are the things that matter most to you? Maybe your priority is maintaining your physical health, nurturing relationships, advancing in your career, or carving out time for creative pursuits.

Write down these priorities. This will serve as your compass as you begin to structure your days. When you’re clear about what matters most, it becomes easier to make decisions about how to spend your time.

2. Start Small and Build Gradually

It can be tempting to overhaul your entire schedule in one go, but that approach often leads to burnout. How many times have you started and restarted the same plan?? Instead, start small. Introduce one or two new habits or routines at a time. For example, if your goal is to improve your physical health, start with a 10-minute daily walk. Once that becomes a habit, you can gradually increase the time or add another activity.

3. Create Anchor Points in Your Day

Anchor points are consistent elements in your day that help ground you. They can be as simple as a morning coffee or an evening walk. These activities act as touchstones, giving your day a sense of structure and stability.

When life feels uncertain, these anchor points can provide comfort and predictability. They are moments you can rely on, no matter how chaotic the rest of the day may be.

4. Be Flexible and Adapt

While routines are essential, it’s also important to remain flexible. I know, I know, which is it?! Life is dynamic, and clinging too rigidly to a routine can lead to frustration when things don’t go as planned. Embrace the idea that your routine can—and should—evolve as your life changes.

If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to tweak it. Maybe your morning routine needs to start earlier, or perhaps you need to swap an evening workout for an afternoon one. The key is to stay in tune with your needs and be willing to adapt.

5. Incorporate Self-Care into Your Routine

While creating these routines, don’t forget to prioritize self-care. Life changes can be/are emotionally and physically taxing, so it’s crucial to carve out time for activities that replenish your energy.

Whether it’s reading, journaling, taking a bath, or spending time in nature, self-care should be a non-negotiable part of your routine. It’s not just about pampering yourself; it’s about maintaining your well-being so that you can show up as your best self in this new chapter of your life.

Transitioning to a new routine takes time. Avoid the pressure to have everything figured out immediately. Allow yourself the grace to adjust gradually. This is a process, not a race.

As you begin to establish your new routine, take time to celebrate your progress. Remember, progress is progress, no matter how small it may seem. Every small step forward is an achievement worth acknowledging. These celebrations serve as positive reinforcement, motivating you to continue building and refining your routines that will support your well-being in the long term

We got this!