Workshop Q&A: Staying Organized (Not Rigid) with Habits + Routines

So often we see people balk at words like “habits” and “routines” because they worry it will equate to being rigid. Take a look at this question from a participant in last year’s session of Simplify Your Life with Habits and Routines.

"One of the problems I have had with routines in the past is that I don't like to be rigid with anything. My routines look good on paper but when I try to follow them consistently I get tired of the 'routine-ness' and I quit. I have family members who can't be flexible at all because their routines are so rigid there is no room to relax or flex a bit.  My question is this: How can I make and maintain workable routines but still be flexible instead of rigid in my schedule?"

Here is the answer given by the workshop instructor (and Aby's good friend!) professional organizer Janine Adams:

 

"I think you can be flexible in your routines if that's what works for you. One of the beauties of having a routine (for me, anyway) is that the tasks become automatic. But when circumstances dictate, I deviate from mine. For example, I didn't exercise on Friday morning because I had to leave the house at 7:15 to drive to the airport, and I didn't want to get up any earlier than absolutely necessary. But now that I'm home, I'll exercise again tomorrow.

 

Add just one habit at a time to your routine and acknowledge that this stuff takes time. Don’t assign a time frame for the tasks in your routines. That may work for someone else, but you know that doesn't work for you. And it's the exact opposite of flexible, isn't it?

 

I have a quote, which I first heard from Michael Neill, pinned to my bulletin board. It says, "Why is it so hard to let it be easy?" I really try to live by the motto, and it’s my big advice to you. Let it be easy."

How about you? Do you consider yourself to be rigid or relaxed in your routines and habits? Leave us a comment below to let us know!