Most of us are creatures of routine. We get up at the same time each morning, eat pretty much the same breakfast (if any), drive to work the same way, frequent the same restaurants and watch the same television shows. There is a sense of comfort in routines; we know what we are going to do, how we are going to do it and the probable outcome. In changing our routines, we venture into the unknown. We also venture into the opportunity for growth and development!
Not all routines are bad. They free our minds to focus more on other concerns, get us more easily through the course of each day and allow for the successful completion of many common chores necessary in day-to-day life. For many, however, routine is an excuse for never changing. Without change, there can be no growth. This type of routine is often referred to as being in a rut! When you are in a rut, you often have no idea why you are doing something. You do it…because that is the way you have always done it! It interests me that so many people give lip service to wanting to change, yet are unwilling to give up their current routines. Exactly how does that work?
Are your life’s routines a driving force in your ability to achieve, or are they simply an excuse for never leaving your comfort zone. Life offers us so many wonderful opportunities to grow and succeed IF we are willing to give up doing things the way we have always done them. Tomorrow, try getting up at a different time, drive to work a different way, eat at a new restaurant and watch a new television show. You might be surprised at all the things you have been routinely missing!
Consider this: If nothing changes, nothing changes.
I care, Barb
By Dorothy R. Znosko July 28, 2016
I have unsuccessfully lost and gained on other programs so any times I lost count…pun intended 🙂
I joined TOPS last week and am totally amazed and pleased with the materials, the professionals that contribute to the contents and that for the first time in my life I actually know why I have been overeating for 59 years! What a whole new wonderful world of choices, learning and feeling better about myself already!
By Pat Cincotta July 2, 2016
I have found that eating the same thing for breakfast every day helps keep me on track. I’ve been doing it for quite awhile and have not gotten tired of it. Yes, I change up lunch and dinner, but that first meal of the day makes sure I have grains, fruit and protein and carries me through to lunch. I think sameness works in different ways for different people.
By Ronette J. Wenberg June 28, 2016
Hey Barb, I just LOVE this blog about our routines and making changes. I remember several years ago when you used the example of moving our trash cans in our kitchens to a different spot. YIKES! When I’ve been doing this years Area Captain program I’ve often asked if they sit in the same seats every week. Of course they do. Then I have the audacity of asking them to sit in a different spot the next week. YIKES again. You’d think I asked for blood or something. Most people feel safe in their daily routines, but I like to change things up a bit. That’s why I like the exchange system so much, I can change the routine of my breakfast every single day – then it’s not boring. Thanks for such great inspiration. I’m sending it to my members.
By Barb Cady June 28, 2016
Thanks so much, Ron! Your chapters are blessed to have you!
Love, Barb