How to Create a Routine and Achieve your goals faster in 7 easy steps

This blog post is all about how to create a routine that will have you crushing your goals in 2024.

The theme of 2024 lately has been transition, but if you're not sure how to create a routine that allows you to reach the next level, you may feel like you're falling behind. Of course we know on some level that we have to keep doing the "thing" if we want to see those results (like going to the gym, eating healthy, or writing blog posts). But you may wonder, isn't there a way to make these uncomfy actions a little more manageable until we start to like them?

Yes, there is! Once you learn how to create a routine that fits your lifestyle you may find yourself gaining results faster than ever. 

However, some people find themselves starting and stopping their new routines and delaying their success. If you want to avoid this, make sure to keep reading to learn how to avoid the common mistakes people make while starting.

This blog post is all about how to create a routine that works for you and allows you to achieve your goals faster.

The Benefits of a Good Routine

A routine isn't just a set schedule you do over and over again. A well-structured routine can literally transform your life.

When you know how to create a routine you can bring a sense of organization to your day-to-day that reduces the chaos that often comes with a hectic lifestyle.

When your day is mapped out, you spend less time deciding what to do next and more time actually doing it. This increases your productivity and allows you to accomplish more in less time.

Moreover, routines can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. Knowing what to expect and having a plan in place makes huge tasks seem more manageable. This predictability helps in alleviating the mental load and promotes a sense of control over your life.

Consistency is another benefit of a good routine. It helps in forming positive habits and breaking negative ones. Whether it’s exercising, reading, or working on a personal project, regular practice allows these activities to become a more permanent part of your daily life, making it easier to sustain progress over the long term.

Lastly, routines free up mental energy. When routine tasks become automatic, you can channel your cognitive resources into more complex and creative endeavors.

This mental clarity enhances your ability to solve problems and make better decisions, thereby accelerating your journey towards your goals.

How do You Know if You're Routine is Working?

Evaluating the effectiveness of your routine is crucial to ensure it aligns with your goals.

One clear indicator is progress. Are you moving closer to your goals? If you notice steady advancements, your routine is likely effective.

Another sign is how you feel. A good routine should make you feel more organized and less stressed. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or constantly behind, it might be time to reassess and tweak your routine.

Additionally, reflect on your energy levels and productivity. An effective routine should help you maintain a consistent energy level throughout the day, avoiding peaks and crashes. I

f you're consistently productive and feel accomplished at the end of the day, your routine is on the right track.

Lastly, feedback from your environment—whether it’s from colleagues, family, or personal milestones—can provide valuable insights. Positive feedback often signals that your routine is fostering a conducive environment for your growth and achievements.

How to Create a Routine that WORKS For You

#1 Start Small and Gradual

Jumping headfirst into a new routine can be overwhelming and unsustainable. Instead, start with small, manageable tasks. For instance, if you aim to read more, begin with a few pages a day rather than an entire book. Gradually increase the complexity and duration of these tasks as they become habitual.

This incremental approach makes the routine less daunting and more achievable. It also allows you to adjust and refine the process without feeling overwhelmed. Over time, these small steps accumulate into significant progress, making your routine a natural part of your daily life.

#2 Set Clear Goals

Defining specific, achievable goals is the cornerstone of an effective routine. Clear goals provide direction and motivation, helping you focus your efforts on what truly matters. When setting goals, be precise about what you want to achieve and set a realistic timeline for accomplishing them.

For example, instead of a vague goal like "get fit," specify how many times a week you’ll exercise and what type of workouts you’ll do. This clarity not only helps in planning your routine but also in tracking your progress and staying motivated.

#3 Create a Schedule

A schedule is the backbone of any routine. Designate specific times for each activity, ensuring that your day is structured yet flexible enough to accommodate unforeseen changes. By assigning particular times to tasks, you create a rhythm that makes it easier to follow through.

Consistency in timing helps in building habits faster. For instance, if you decide to exercise every morning at 7 AM, over time, your body and mind will adapt, making it an automatic part of your day. A well-planned schedule also prevents procrastination and ensures that you allocate time for both work and relaxation.

#4 Use Reminders and Alarms

In our fast-paced lives, it's easy to forget tasks or lose track of time. Utilize technology to your advantage by setting reminders and alarms. Calendar notifications, habit-tracking apps, and alarms can serve as gentle nudges to keep you on track.

These tools help you stay accountable and ensure that you don’t overlook important activities. For instance, a reminder to take a break can prevent burnout, while an alarm for a meeting ensures you’re always punctual. Incorporating these digital aids into your routine enhances consistency and helps you stick to your plan.

#5 Stay Flexible

While a routine is about structure, it's essential to maintain a degree of flexibility. Life is unpredictable, and rigidity can lead to frustration when things don’t go as planned. Allow yourself some leeway to adapt and make necessary adjustments.

Flexibility in your routine means being able to shuffle tasks or reschedule activities without feeling stressed. This adaptability not only keeps you sane but also ensures that your routine remains effective under varying circumstances. Remember, the goal is to create a sustainable routine that enhances your life, not to be a slave to it.

#6 Monitor Progress

Regularly monitoring your progress is vital to ensure that your routine is effective. Keep track of your achievements through journals, apps, or checklists. Documenting your progress provides tangible evidence of your efforts and keeps you motivated.

By reviewing your progress, you can identify what’s working and what’s not. This allows you to make informed adjustments to your routine, ensuring continuous improvement. Whether it's a daily reflection or a weekly review, monitoring your progress keeps you aligned with your goals and helps you stay on course.

#7 Reward Yourself

Positive reinforcement plays a crucial role in maintaining consistency. Reward yourself for sticking to your routine and achieving milestones. These rewards don’t have to be extravagant; simple pleasures like a favorite treat, a relaxing activity, or a short break can serve as effective motivators.

Rewards reinforce your commitment and provide a sense of accomplishment, making it more likely that you’ll stick to your routine. By celebrating your successes, you create a positive association with your routine, fostering long-term adherence and making the journey towards your goals more enjoyable.

So, in conclusion, 

Creating a routine that aligns with your goals can take some thoughtful planning and flexibility.

By starting small, setting clear goals, scheduling activities, using reminders, staying flexible, monitoring progress, and rewarding yourself, you can build a routine that not only brings structure to your day but also accelerates your journey towards achieving your goals.

Need more ideas on what to add to your routine? Check out this blog post on 11 Daily Habits of Successful People That Will Change Your Life, for a list of actions that will take you to your next level.

This blog post has been all about how to create a routine that works for you!

Stay Creative, 

~J.D. Ashmore