We all have routines built into our schedules. It’s our morning routine to get ready for the day, meal times, our work schedule, and anything else that reoccurs on a regular basis to help maintain structure in our lives. Routines help simplify our life in an ever changing world.  

• The first step to any routine is setting a goal. What does success look like and what do you want to accomplish?
• One step at a time.  Set small goals to reach a larger goal. This will help you create the change needed to move towards your goal. In addition, taking small steps will provide perspective on the progress made and helps you to modify the timeline or goal as needed.
• Make the routine enjoyable. This helps provide the motivation and inspiration to do the work to reach the desired outcome.
• Schedule activities that help develop or maintain the desired routine / goal.
• We all get interruptions from time to time. When this happens, take the time to complete what needs to get done. Then, make it a point to get back on schedule with your routine.
• Enlist a friend to hold you accountable to your routine. An example may be an “Exercise Buddy.”
• Are you concerned about establishing a new routine when you already have so much on your plate? Relax, pause, and take a moment to review your regular schedule.  
• There is almost always time that can be spared if your time is spent well.  
• Look for opportunities to replace one routine with another. Example: You want to cut down on the amount of Coke you drink. Choose another drink (tea) that you enjoy and stock your refrigerator with that beverage. Put the Coke in the back of the refrigerator so that it is not the first thing you see as you open the door.  
• Repetition creates routine.   

• A great way to create a routine and hold yourself accountable is to keep a “To Do” list.  
• Check out our Quick Tips & Tools at www.charmmdfoundation.org/resources.html for a quick and easy to use “To Do” list.
• Create a list of “To Do’s” for the following day based upon your goal. Remember to incorporate small steps to accomplish a larger goal.
• Establish priorities. Review your list to prioritize the items that must be completed in the order of importance. 
• If possible, complete the items you dislike first. This way, you have the remainder of the day to look forward to the items you enjoy doing. 
• Throughout the day, check off your “To Do’s” as you complete them.
• At the end of the day take a moment to review your list.  
• Review the list and check off any remaining items that have been completed.
• Take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments achieved throughout the day and give yourself a pat on the back.
• Next, get out a new “To Do” list if needed and roll over the remaining items.  
• Add additional items as needed.
• Prioritize your list for the following day. 
• Repeat these steps on a regular basis until it becomes a routine.

• Reduces stress
• Provides a consistent event in a world with many variables
• Helps you to achieve your ultimate goal
• Provides structure and organization 
• Builds confidence and self-esteem
• Provides a method for establishing a new process