Manifest the Best: Creating an Awesome New Routine

The world today looks drastically different than it did six months ago, and it has caused a big shift in our day-to-day lives. In this wave of uncertainty and change, something that can provide a sense of normalcy is a set daily routine. Here are some tips to help you set one or update the one you have. 

Write Down Your Goals 

In her novel Untamed, Glennon Doyle challenges readers to think about the truest, most beautiful stories that could happen in their lives and write them down.  

“As every architect or designer knows, there’s a critical step between vision and reality,” she says. “Before imagination becomes three-dimensional, it usually needs to become two-dimensional. It’s as though the unseen order needs to come to life one dimension at a time.”  

This is where you should start with your new routine.  

Ask yourself what changes you want to make. Who do you want to be? Revisit that beautiful story you jotted down—now, how are you going to get there? According to a study noted in Inc. magazine, those who write down their goals are 42% more likely to achieve them. Even further, a study in Forbes magazine suggests vividly describing your goals and thinking about them in detail makes the rate even higher. 

So, grab a pen and paper and start dreaming. 

Start Small 

We can’t transform our entire lifestyle overnight. The key to changing your routine and sticking with it is making one or two changes at a time. Marathon runners don’t begin by running 26.2 miles. They start with shorter runs and build as they continue to train. Set small goals for yourself, such as getting up at the same time each morning. Crush that goal and then go after your next one! 

Be Consistent 

The best routines are ones you don’t have to think about. The best way to get into a new habit is to do something consistently. It may feel strange to set reminders for yourself to journal each morning, take a walk at lunch or do your skincare routine before bed—but once you get in the habit of doing those things each day, you will no longer need the reminder. 

Stay Positive  

In 2007, Hannah Montana told us Nobody’s Perfect, and it as true now as it was then. While it’s easy to get down on yourself if you slip up or get off track for a few days, it’s okay to take a break now and then. The most important thing is to not let one slip up become the end of the road. Instead of feeling guilty or letting it bring you down, use it as a chance to reset, refocus and get back on track! 

Begin Today 

There always seems to be a better or more convenient time to start a new challenge. Phrases like “I’ll start at the beginning of next week,” can too easily turn into next month—or even this year. If you catch yourself saying you’ll tackle something after your next project or once you’re caught up on homework, ask yourself what is really holding you up. If you keep looking for reasons to not start, you’ll keep finding them.  

The easiest way to ensure you start is to start today. You don’t have to change everything at once—make one small change today, and then do it again tomorrow. 

Need Inspiration? 

Here are some great new habits you can add to your routine: 

Modifying your sleep schedule 

• Getting up earlier or getting more sleep at night are both great ways to improve your routine. In addition to setting an alarm for waking up, try setting one to go to bed. 

Drinking enough water 

• Consider purchasing a water bottle that has times on the side to track your water intake throughout the day. You can also use a reminder on your phone. 

Eating healthier 

• Eating more fruits and vegetables, reducing junk food, eating breakfast or meal planning will all add energy to your day and boost your routine. Try making a weekly menu—including nutritious creative snacks! 

Exercising 

• Aiming to get more steps, closing the rings on your Apple Watch or just finding a type of workout you enjoy will give you more energy. Take a quick walk at lunch, stretch in the morning or take in a new workout class. Don’t be afraid to try new things! 

Spending less time using screens/technology/social media 

• Want to spend less time scrolling through Instagram or TikTok? Set time limits in your settings for each day and stick to them. 

Reading more books 

• Try joining a book club so you have someone to read with! Check out the Alpha Gam Book Club on Facebook. 

Learning to meditate 

• Spend just ten minutes a day sitting quietly with yourself. You’ll be surprised how easy it is once you get started—and how well it helps you center yourself, lower blood pressure and prepare your slate for what comes next. 

Journaling  

• Make lists, reflect on your day or write down people and things you’re thankful for. Set aside time before you go to bed or right when you wake up. 

Making your bed each morning  

• This is a small change that will make your space feel tidy—and it only takes a few minutes each morning. 

Keeping your space clean 

• This is more manageable if you do a little bit each day. A good rule of thumb is, if you notice a task that will take less than five minutes, do it right then and there. 

Want more tips on setting goals? Check out Leveling Up with Goal Charting by Cheyenne Baker in the latest issue of the Quarterly.