Let’s talk about routines. You have one. I have one. But let’s be honest: most of them are boring. They suck the life out of us. We’re stuck in a loop of tasks, hustling for that next “big thing” and just trying to get through the day.

But here’s the thing: your daily routine shouldn’t feel like a grind. It should energize you. It should make you feel grounded. It should be a little thing that sets the tone for your day without burning you out. So, how do we create a routine that feels good?

Stop Following What You “Should” Do

First things first: stop listening to everyone else. Cut that shit out. Right now. Stop trying to stick to some routine just because someone on the internet told you it’s the “key to productivity.” You don’t need to meditate at 5 a.m. if that’s not your vibe. If yoga feels like a chore, ditch it. Also, work on a timeline that fits you. If you’re not a morning person, cool. We all get the same 24 hours, but how you spend it or arrange it, is up to you.

Your routine should be about what works for you. Ask yourself: what do you actually enjoy doing? What makes you feel good? Maybe it’s that cup of coffee in silence before the world wakes up. Maybe it’s getting a quick sweat session in. Maybe it’s spending 15 minutes journaling. Whatever it is…make it your own.

Don’t Overload Your Day

Ever find yourself loading up your to-do list with a million things, thinking you’ll feel more accomplished? Guess what? It just adds pressure. If you try to do it all, you’ll burn out before breakfast.

Pick 3-5 key things that will actually make your day feel complete. A solid morning routine doesn’t have to be a mile-long list. Make time for what matters most to you! Maybe it’s breakfast, a quick stretch, a walk outside, or even just some quiet moments before your day starts. For me, I start my weekday, by stretching and then getting ready for work. But my weeknight list of things to do is longer: try to work out, read my Bible, and journal.

Flexibility Is Key

The trick to a good routine? Flexibility. Life happens, and sometimes things don’t go according to plan. Maybe you sleep in, or your meeting runs long, or you just aren’t in the mood for your usual morning jog. And guess what? That’s okay.

A good routine adapts. If you wake up feeling off, it’s cool to switch things up. The goal isn’t to check off boxes, it’s to feel good in the process. Some days, it’ll look different. And that’s fine.

Make Room for What Lights You Up

Your routine isn’t just about being productive. It’s about making space for what makes you feel alive. If your whole routine is just work, work, work, then no one wins. Trust me on this one. You need an identity. Work ain’t it.

So, add in the things that excite you. Whether it’s reading a few pages of a book, dancing half naked in your kitchen, FaceTiming with a friend, or simply enjoying a hot cup of tea while listening to your bestie’s podcast, because face it — everyone has a podcast. Those little moments of joy will fuel your entire day.

Get Ready the Night Before

Want to make your mornings easier? Set yourself up for success the night before. Lay out your clothes. Prep your breakfast. Write down your priorities for the next day.

A little prep goes a long way. It helps you skip the early-morning chaos and gives you a head start on your day. Trust me, you’ll feel way more in control.

Cut Yourself Some Slack

I know, I know…

You want everything to be perfect. But guess what? It’s not going to be. Some days will go smoothly. Others? Not so much. And that’s totally fine.

The key here is not to be hard on yourself. Give yourself grace. If you miss a step in your routine, don’t freak out. You’re not going to lose the entire day. A routine is a guide, not a strict rulebook. Keep it chill. If something doesn’t work, adjust and move on.

Create a Routine That Feels Like You

Routines should make your life easier, not more difficult. It should set you up for success, not stress. So, stop trying to force yourself into some “perfect” routine. Find what makes you feel good, and make room for that.

Your routine is about you. It’s about what keeps you energized, focused, and grounded. You deserve a routine that feels good every day.