[BrowseAfterMidnight]

Hello all,

So, I've been thinking that I need to develop a routine. I need to wake up and go to bed at the same time every day and set aside daily time for exercise, meditation and journaling, as well as time for work and for fun. But I like to do things when I feel like it (Free Spirit). Otherwise, my life just feels dull and I stop knowing what I really want from it. I like having the inspiration to do certain things and make certain choices because it makes me feel alive. Unfortunately, when I'm depressed, making decisions becomes harder and motivation is scarce, so I often end up feeling bad about my inaction and making my family disappointed too...

So, I'm just not sure how far I need to go with routine.

I know I need to at least get my sleep schedule under control and do journaling, exercise and meditation... I hope that's not too much to ask of myself at first because the latter three should only take up 10-15 minutes each.

Sorry this was kind of a rant. Any constructive advice would be appreciated.

[Skeezyks]

I think the kinds of things you mention here are things everyone struggles with to one degree or another. I know I certainly have. I think one important thing is to not try to do it all at once... just one thing at a time. Perhaps try to get your sleep schedule regulated. Then add something else... & then something else. Trying to swallow the whole apple all at once is... well... you get the idea...

[treevoice]

I think there's probably a middle ground between routine and freedom. Maybe rather than having strictly scheduled tasks, you could have a schedule that gives you some flexibility without overwhelming you with options that may lead to inactivity. For example, you could say "from this time to this time I have the choice between these 3 activities", etc. Or you could have a hard schedule for the really important stuff (sleep, meals, wellness activities) but also have scheduled flex time where you can do whatever you feel like. That way you are developing a routine without being to constrictive of your spirit. Sometimes when I'm having a hard time staying on schedule, I create a "chore chart" for myself. Rather than having a set schedule, I may make a list of things I need/want to accomplish for the week. I give myself a gold star whenever I complete the task, and that way I'm able to go with the flow of life while also maintaining a conscious effort to complete my goals. Also, gold stars are fun and uplifting.

[Sunflower123]

treevoice has some excellent points. I have to have a routine and everything scheduled down to the minute. My daughter, on the other hand, refuses to make plans or routines but still manages to move towards her goals. Guess which one of us is more stressed? You could create a very loose, flexible routine. Best wishes.