Many of us have overloaded plates; whether we’re a business owner, CEO, entrepreneur….From managing a team, to year end accounts (tick tock), our days can feel overwhelming and chaotic.
One way to regaining control and boosting productivity is by implementing a daily routine. In fact, research has shown that having a daily routine at work and home is key to thriving.
First up, having a routine reduces decision fatigue. Every day, we make countless decisions, from what to wear to what to eat for lunch. This can lead to decision fatigue, which is when the quality of our decisions declines as the day goes on. By establishing a routine, you eliminate the need to make certain decisions, such as what time to wake up or what tasks to prioritise first thing in the morning. This frees up mental energy for more important decisions later in the day.
In addition, routines can help reduce stress and anxiety. When we have a predictable schedule, we know what to expect and can plan accordingly. This can help us feel more in control and less overwhelmed. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that employees who had a strong sense of control over their work environment had lower levels of job-related stress and anxiety.
Routines can also help us build good habits. When we do something consistently at the same time every day, it becomes a habit. For example, if you establish a routine of going for a walk every morning before work, it will eventually become a habit that you don't have to think about. These types of healthy habits can be especially helpful for people working from home, where routine can easily slip with the daily domestic distractions (note to self) and easily breakable work-life / home-life boundaries.
Finally, routines can improve our sleep quality. When we establish a consistent sleep routine, our bodies get into a rhythm and we're able to fall asleep more easily and stay asleep longer. This can have a big impact on our productivity and overall well-being. A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research found that individuals who had a consistent sleep schedule had better sleep quality and felt more alert during the day.
If you need support with establishing a routine, I offer bespoke 1:1 coaching sessions, where I consider all the factors that make up your working day; looking at your commitments and responsibilities, your challenges and goals. I help you cut out the cr*p that’s getting in the way of you thriving, and adding in more of the good stuff that brings the clarity and focus. All delivered with as much or as little ‘woo’ as you would like.