Who doesn't love a good routine? MANY PEOPLE. Which, to me, is quite shocking. Who loves living in stress? Here is the thing, the people who don't love routines, more of the daily flow, are so peaceful and I don't understand how? I just want to go with the flow in between what is scheduled in my daily planner, is that too much to ask?

I am currently living abroad for a year. I never know what is next for me while volunteering, so I thrive off what I can control and that is…. My routine. I take my morning, my night, my everything in-between routine very seriously. I purposely excuse myself from different things for my "self-care" time and no one budges because they respect my need for it. Gosh, I love what I do.

Here are some tips on creating your OWN routine to make the crazy less crazy and "self-care" something you look forward too.

Your "Why"

Why are you creating a routine? Are things going crazy and you cannot control them? Do you have some free time on your hands you want to use wisely? Did your dentist get mad at you for not doing anything else besides a light brushing of your teeth each day? The possibilities are endless….

Figure out what is your "why" first. Why would you want to create something and not stick to it? Don't waste your time creating your routine if you're not going to follow through. What is the why? What is the ending prize? Total tranquility or maybe a bodybuilding contest.

Your "Goals"

Next, write down your goals. My goals were to finish the book I am reading, take better care of my skin, drink more water, and invest more in people.

Once I did that, I made lists of what I could do for each one… read 10 minutes a day, wash my face then moisturize each day, etc. Then separate times where you will do that. I usually choose morning and evening and then I group things together properly so as not to forget to follow through with them. It becomes a habit within a month.

Your "Pleasures"

Your "why" and your "goals" don't always have to be serious. It could be to do a face mask each week, cook at least three times a week to save money, and things along those lines! These things bring my heart joy, so I make them work. People laugh at how long my night routine is, but I enjoy doing it because it's good for my body and my soul. Make this a fun thing that only makes your life better!

Your "Accountability"

How are you holding yourself accountable? I use a PDF I bought from (HabitNest) for under $20! I fill it out each day and it helps me stick to my goals. You don't need to spend the money, however, just keep a journal by your bed and remember to journal about what that day had to offer! You can even do it with a friend or with a parent. Life isn't meant for you to do things alone!

Your "Yes"

There is no better routine or commitment than ones with people who are ALL IN. Even if you hate running, but you told yourself you will, keep that promise to yourself. It builds character and it's easier to keep other promises then as well. Your "Yes" is the one thing that will always stick by you, so don't take advantage of it by cheating on it. You become better each day, even when you don't notice. Now isn't that incentive enough to stick to your routine?

I hope these five steps encouraged you to start doing the one thing you have wanted to do for awhile. Just know that you have people rooting for you!