Are you feeling stagnant? You can create a new routine by changing one thing at a time. Spring is the perfect time to start something new. After all, springtime is when flowers bloom and birds loudly chirp. The world around you is beginning to come alive. Spring can be an important time to acknowledge newness in recovery. There is no better way to do that than to create a new routine. There is a lot of power in making small changes in your daily life.
This article will explore how the change of seasons can uplift your mood and how small changes can create a lasting impact. Then, we’ll explore how The Guest House can assist you as an alumnus.
Why Is It Important to Create a New Routine?
When you were involved in active addiction, you likely did not have a healthy routine. Perhaps there was no balance to what you did throughout the day. Maybe your daily life brought you little joy. During treatment, though, you may have realized that the smallest things can provide happiness.
You may not recognize that a new routine is what you need, but mixing up your current routine is important in recovery. People tend to get complacent and struggle with initiating changes. First, you must recognize the areas in which you have become comfortable. After that, you can decide what types of changes would be beneficial.
You have a routine for work, recovery, and other habits for obvious reasons. A routine in these areas works out great because you do not have to think about them much. However, by switching things up occasionally, you are allowing your brain to get more creative energy to flow. That movement can give you a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, research published in Frontiers in Psychology shows that the ability of the brain to change, called neuroplasticity, can help you to change your life regardless of your age.
Starting Small When Creating a New Routine
Still, establishing a new routine is difficult for most people. Humans tend to get caught up in a routine and do not like the discomfort of change. Hence, you may think that establishing a new routine will be hard. Thankfully, it does not have to be.
You can start by recognizing small goals you would like to accomplish. For example, if you run late when going to work every morning, perhaps you could set your alarm for ten minutes earlier. Sometimes, establishing a new routine involves simply making a small adjustment to your schedule.
Keep in mind that everyone is different. Therefore, what you value may not be what someone else deems important. Discussing your priorities with a counselor, like At The Guest House, is important.
How Can a New Routine Help Me With Achieving Goals?
Most likely, you are trying to be your best self and continue thinking of ways your life can be easier. Nevertheless, simply having motivation may not always be enough to obtain goals. For example, think about the last time you felt motivated to do something. This feeling of motivation lasts for a short amount of time. However, routines can give you motivation that lasts longer.
Routines offer you a sense of control throughout your day. Doing something consistently can bring you a sense of satisfaction during your recovery. Having a regular set of actions daily gives you control that you did not have while in active addiction.
Tips for Setting Goals
Keep in mind that you need to start small. Getting into the thought process that small goals equal big goals is important for overall success. No matter how big or small the goal is, having a routine will only further your chances of achieving it.
Also, make sure that your goal is realistic and can be incorporated into your routine. For example, if you want to go to the gym, start by going two days per week instead of saying you will go every day. Start small to incorporate changes into your daily routine and give yourself space.
Step Into a New Routine at The Guest House
Developing a new routine is possible when you have like-minded individuals to assist you in your recovery journey. At The Guest House, you will find those people. This support network will remind you of the powerful person you have become. Our alumni program will connect you with individuals who understand your journey’s difficulty and want to support you.
We offer a trauma-specific program that puts your goals first and connects you with individual and group therapies. You will feel seen and heard. Additionally, you will find the accountability to support you in every area of your life. You will find everything You need for a successful and lasting recovery at The Guest House.
The time to create a new routine is here. The weather is changing and now you may feel more motivated to change. Spring is a time when the earth is creating new seeds and life is blooming. This may make you feel more excited to create a new routine. Perhaps you have identified the elements you would like to incorporate into your routine but feel hesitant. At The Guest House, we understand how difficult it can be to create a new routine during recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling and need assistance, please give us a call. We are here for you no matter how big or small the issue is. Contact us at (855) 483-7800.